How to Make Mate Cocido

yerba mate

🥗Healthier: green tea

💰Cheaper: black tea

Green tea offers a similar flavor profile with less caffeine.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Honey adds sweetness with additional flavor.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: oat milk

Almond milk is lower in calories and can be made at home.

In a medium heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat, add the sugar and cook, stirring until the sugar dissolves and caramelizes (be careful not to let the sugar burn). If using brown sugar, cook until it melts.

Next, stir in the yerba mate and allow it to toast for a few seconds. Then, pour in the hot water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar fully dissolves from the bottom of the pot. Be careful not to let it come to a full boil to prevent any bitterness.

Remove from the heat and let steep for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the yerba to settle to the pan's bottom before serving or strain right away, through a fine mesh strainer, into cups and serve.

If the Cocido Quemado is too strong for your taste, dilute it with hot water or hot milk. Adjust the sugar to taste.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: