So you are an “adult” now, and you actually need coffee to keep yourself going the whole day. But, yuck, the taste is so bitter and since you are an “adult,” lots of sugar and cream just don’t wear well on you. Maybe the taste grew on you, but those jitters make you a little wacky. Well here’s your answer to your “adult” problem.
Maté Tea
Coming from South America, Yerba Maté tea has a strong flavor that’s distinct from other teas. It’s usually roasted and smoked. Like any tea, maté can also be found in its most basic, and strong form as a powder or commonly found in tea bags. With fewer tannins than tea and coffee, which gives it a bitter taste, the flavor of Maté is not as bitter as coffee. It has the antioxidants of tea and similar caffeine boost as coffee.
Specifically, Maté teas range from 85-100 milligrams of caffeine in a cup. So if you need some caffeine but the coffee jitters are just too much, Maté tea is a good switch. It’s often labeled as a smooth increase in energy so you don’t have to worry about a caffeine crash. If you are caffeine-sensitive, Maté can be a substitute for later in the day because while there is a substantial amount of caffeine, it won’t wreck your night of sleep.
It has a strong flavor, just like coffee. But it’s less bitter, so you can hold off on the cream and sugar, allowing your drink to be tasty without all the added calories. Just like coffee, it can be enjoyed iced or hot.
One of my favorite Maté teas is The Republic of Tea’s Double Dark Chocolate Maté. The tea bags contain natural dark cocoa powder. It actually tastes like chocolate. Add a little vanilla almond milk creamer and it’s like a dessert beverage with few calories and very little sugar!
Some other flavors that are popular with Maté tea are rich flavors, such as mocha and coffee flavors. Chai also compliments this roasted flavor. Maté tea is so versatile that it even goes well with fruity flavors.
So, if you are bored of the same old coffee that making you feel out of sorts, give Maté a try. Even if you aren’t ready to get rid of your old bitter friend entirely, Maté can easily find a way into your schedule. Maybe tea time instead of your afternoon coffee run?