This may sound like blasphemy in a city ruled by the ubiquitous beanmasters whose name I don’t need to type, but yerba mate is a wonderful alternative to coffee for nearly any caffeine addict.
Yerba mate can have as much caffeine as a strong black tea or even a cup of coffee, but is less acidic than coffee, and easier on the digestive system. Mate also has less tannins than traditional teas, which means less bitterness (and less potential for stained teeth) than other teas. In addition to these benefits, yerba mate is loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The best part? The pre-bagged dried variety can be brewed in a traditional paper coffee filter, just like coffee grounds, or in a reusable K-Cup for the Keurig owners.
Two places in Seattle to try out this underrated superbeverage are Tully's Coffee, which offers a Mate Latte, and Remedy Teas, where there are a dozen varieties to choose from, including mate blended with cocoa, mint, chai and Mate Tropic, infused with pineapple, mango and currants.
