Algarrobo is one of Argentina's most noble and resilient woods. Before your first brew, curing seals the wood's natural pores, removes the raw wood taste, and protects it from moisture. Done right, it guarantees your mate won't crack for years to come.
What Makes Algarrobo Different?
Unlike traditional calabash gourds, algarrobo mates are made from hardwood.
They don’t need scraping, but they do need oil treatment and gradual conditioning.
Curing helps:
- seal the wood pores
- improve durability
- prevent absorption of excess moisture
- enhance flavour over time
What You’ll Need
- Cooking oil (olive or sunflower)
- Yerba mate
- Warm and cold water
- Spoon
- Paper towel or cloth
Step-by-Step: How to Cure Your Algarrobo Mate
Step 1: First Coat of Oil
Using a brush, cotton pad, or paper towel, coat the entire inner surface with cooking oil.
Let it absorb for 24 hours, placed upside down on absorbent paper.
Algarrobo absorbs oil generously — if it looks dry after a few hours, apply a second layer.
Step 2: Second Coat of Oil
Repeat the process to fully seal the wood.
Let it rest another 24 hours, upside down.
Step 3: Fill with Damp Yerba
Fill the mate about ¾ full with yerba mate.
Moisten it with cold or warm water (never hot yet) until it’s firmly packed.
Let it rest for 48 hours.
This step helps the wood cure evenly from the inside.
Step 4: Empty and Rinse
Remove the yerba with a spoon and rinse the inside with warm water.
Let it dry upside down in open air for at least 12 hours.
If the inside feels smooth, slightly oily, and smells like cured wood — it’s ready.
Step 5: First Brew
Prepare your first mate using water at 70–75°C (160–165°F).
This finishes setting the cure without stressing the wood.
Your first few brews may have a light woody taste — this is completely normal.
Care Tips to Make It Last
💧 Daily Drying
After each use, empty it and let it dry upside down.
Never leave yerba inside for more than 12 hours.
🛢 Re-oil Regularly
Every 2–3 months, apply a light coat of oil to maintain the wood.
🌬 Proper Storage
Store in a cool, ventilated place.
Always keep it fully dry.
🌡 Water Temperature
Ideal range: 70–85°C (160–185°F)
Avoid boiling water, especially during the first uses.
What to Avoid
✕ Using soap or detergent
✕ Dishwasher cleaning
✕ Soaking in water
✕ Storing it wet or enclosed
✕ Using boiling water in the first days
✕ Leaving yerba inside for more than 12 hours
Enjoy Your Mate
Once properly cured, your algarrobo mate will develop character and last for years.
Take care of it, and it will reward you with every brew.