How to Cure a Calabash Mate Gourd (The Easy Way)

How to Cure a Calabash Mate Gourd (The Easy Way)

If you’ve just bought a mate gourd made of calabash, congratulations! 🎉
Before using it for the first time, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: curing the gourd.

Don’t worry, it’s simple, natural, and part of the beautiful ritual of drinking mate.

 

Why Do You Need to Cure a Mate Gourd?

A calabash gourd is natural and porous. Curing it:

• Removes any bitter taste
• Seals the inside of the gourd
• Helps prevent mold
• Improves the flavor of your mate over time

Think of it as “training” your gourd for years of good mate moments ☺️

 

What You’ll Need

• Yerba mate (used or new)
• Hot water (not boiling)
• A spoon
• 24 hours of patience 

Step-by-Step: How to Cure Your Mate Gourd (Watch the video)

 

1. Fill It With Yerba Mate

Fill the gourd about ¾ full with yerba mate. You can use fresh yerba or reused yerba from a previous mate.

2. Add Hot Water

Pour hot (but not boiling) water until the yerba is fully soaked.

3. Let It Rest

Leave the gourd like this for 24 hours.
This allows the calabash to absorb the yerba flavors and seal the inside naturally.

4. Scrape the Inside

After 24 hours, empty the gourd.
Using a spoon, gently scrape the inside to remove loose fibers from the calabash. This is normal and important.

5. Rinse and Dry

Rinse with warm water (no soap!).
Let the gourd air dry completely, preferably upside down in a well-ventilated area.

 

That’s It! Your Gourd Is Ready 🌿

Once cured, your mate gourd is ready to use. With time, it will develop more character and flavor—just like a good tradition.

 

Extra Tips

• Never use soap inside the gourd
• Always empty and dry it after use
• If you see light mold, scrape it gently and rinse with hot water

Enjoy your mate and the ritual that comes with it. 🧉