Calabash natural - Light
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Country of Origin South America
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Product Type Tea Accesories
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Material Pumpkin
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Total Price: 13.00 € (including VAT)
Original natural calabash for the preparation of Yerba maté made from dried wooden gourd. The top is decorated with a metal rim. Each calabash has a unique pattern.
The volume of the calabash is approx. 250 ml.
The calabash is a traditional vessel made from the plant Lagenaria siceraria (bottle gourd). It is mainly used in South America for drinking maté (Yerba maté).
Preparation of the calabash before first use
The calabash must be properly prepared before it is used for the first time in order to remove any impurities, strengthen its walls and prevent mould. This process is called curado or seasoning.
- Rinse the calabash with hot (but not boiling) water to remove dust and impurities from the production.
- Pour the yerba mate leaves into the calabash to about ¾ of their volume.
- Cover with hot (not boiling) water and leave to stand for at least 24 hours. This step helps to "open" the pores of the calabash and rid it of bitter or unwanted flavors.
- After 24 hours, empty the calabash and gently scrape out the inner walls with a spoon or knife to remove any remaining pulp (if present).
- Allow the calabash to dry well in a dry and airy place, bottom up, so that it can air out well.
First use
After treatment, the calabash is ready to use! For the first few infusions it may have a specific taste, but it will gradually "enjoy" itself and acquire a better character.
Care tips:
- After each use, rinse the calabash well and leave to dry upside down.
- Do not expose it to direct sunlight or high temperatures (it may crack).
- If it does get "stale", you can rinse it again with hot water and let it dry thoroughly.