Terere is a refreshing and invigorating variation of the traditional South American tea, mate. This unique preparation method, which originated in Paraguay, involves serving the drink cold, usually with ice or chilled water, rather than hot. Terere has become increasingly popular in many parts of South America, particularly in Brazil and Argentina, where it is often enjoyed in social settings.
The name "terere" comes from the Guarani word. The traditional recipe is made with mate leaves and cold water, but some variations include adding mint, cedron, grapefruit, and lemon to enhance the flavor.
Terere is not only a delicious drink but it's also known for its energizing and refreshing properties, making it an ideal beverage for hot summer days or for a refreshing break during the day. It is also an important cultural tradition and a symbol of friendship and social bonding in the countries where it is popular. If you're looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy mate, Terere is definitely worth a try!
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What is Terere?
Terere is a traditional cold beverage from Paraguay made by brewing yerba mate leaves in cold water. It is typically consumed during warm months in Paraguay.
Natural flavors and herbs such as mint, cedron, grapefruit, or lemon are usually added to enhance the flavor. Terere is not only a delicious and refreshing drink, but it also holds cultural significance and is often enjoyed in social settings.
3 Ways to Enhance Terere
- Add natural flavors: One way to enhance the flavor of terere is by adding natural flavors such as mint, cedron, grapefruit, or lemon. These flavors can be added to the cold water or can be added directly to the cup with the yerba mate.
- Use fresh herbs: Another way to enhance the flavor of terere is by using fresh herbs. You can add fresh mint, parsley or cedron leaves to the water or to the cup for a more intense flavor.
- Experiment with different mate varieties: Terere is made from yerba mate, which comes in different varieties, each with its unique flavor profile. Experimenting with different varieties of yerba mate can be a great way to enhance the flavor of terere.
Terere Ingredients
Fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as mint, lemon verbena, lime leaves, or lemongrass to terere can enhance the flavor and aroma of the drink. Herbs like mint can add a refreshing and cooling effect, while lemon verbena can add a citrusy and floral note to the drink.
Water: Water is an essential ingredient in terere as it is used to brew the yerba mate leaves. The quality of the water can affect the taste of the drink, so it is best to use purified or filtered water for the best results.
Ice: Ice is used to cool the terere and make it more refreshing.
Yerba Mate : Yerba mate is the main ingredient in terere. It is a type of tea made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant and is known for its energizing and refreshing properties.
Tools you'll need
How to Make Terere
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Pour the yerba mate inside the gourd until it is about ½ full. Cover the mouth of the mate gourd with one hand, invert it and shake it vigorously for about 4 seconds. The purpose of this is to get the smallest particles to sit on the top of the preparation. Now place the gourd again in its position, taking care of the yerba mate to remain inclined on one side.
Using a mortar, add desired herbs and crush them, then transfer them to the jug. Add ice and fill with water. Pour a little cold water into the gap you’ve made inside the gourd. Keep the gourd tilted until the Yerba Mate has absorbed the water.
Cover the mouth of the bombilla with your thumb and put the filter end into the hollow part of the yerba mate. Uncover the bombilla only when you have found the definite position of the bombilla touching the bottom of the gourd. This way, you will keep the filter from blocking fine particles. Then, begin pouring the cold water softly inside the gourd– done! You can now enjoy your refreshing tereré Paraguayo!😊
Substitutions
If you want to make substitutions while preparing Terere, there are a few options:
- Plain Yerba Mate: Instead of using plain yerba mate, you can use other types of yerba mate, like fruit-flavored yerba mate or citrus fruits.
- Herbs: You can use different herbs to add flavor to your Terere. Some popular options include mint, lemon verbena, lemongrass, or parsley.
It's important to note that these substitutions may change the taste and experience of traditional Terere, but you can experiment and adjust the ingredients to your liking.
Variations
Here are a few variations of Terere you may find:
- Tereré de Hierbas: This variation is made with a blend of herbs in addition to or in place of the traditional yerba mate. Common herbs include mint, lemongrass, and lemon verbena.
- Tereré de Citrico: This variation involves adding fresh citrus peels such as orange, lemon, or grapefruit to the terere for added flavor.
- Tereré de Menta: This variation is made with fresh mint leaves added to the yerba mate, giving it a cool, refreshing taste.
- Tereré de Limón: This variation is made with lemon juice added to the terere, giving it a tangy, citrusy flavor.
These are just a few examples of the variations of Terere, and you can experiment with different ingredients to make your own unique version of the traditional drink.
Tips for Making The Best Terere
Here are a few tips for making the best Terere:
- Use cold water: Terere is traditionally made with cold water, but you can also use room-temperature water.
- Let it steep: Let the yerba mate steep in the cold water for a few minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Use a traditional gourd and bombilla: Using a traditional gourd and bombilla (a metal straw with a filter on the end) will give you the best Terere experience.
- Add ice: To make your Terere even colder, add ice to the jar before drinking.
- Experiment with different types of yerba mate: Different types of yerba mate will have different flavors and aromas, so experiment with different types to find your favorite.
- Yerba Mate: Similar to hot mate tea, the flavor of the yerba will deteriorate over time. It is recommended to replace the yerba with fresh yerba when the characteristic flavor is no longer noticeable.
- Clean your equipment: Regularly cleaning your gourd and bombilla will help to keep your Terere tasting fresh and prevent the buildup of mold or bacteria.
Be mindful of how much you consume; yerba mate contains caffeine, so excessive consumption can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and insomnia.
FAQ
How is Terere different from a regular mate?
Terere is made with cold water, while regular mate is made with hot water.
Can you drink Terere hot?
Terere is typically consumed cold, but some people also enjoy it hot, in which case it is called "mate." The brewing method is the same as for hot mate; the only difference is the use of cold water instead of hot water.
What are the benefits of drinking Terere?
Terere is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help boost energy, and improve mental focus and digestion.
What is the traditional way to serve Terere?
The traditional way to serve Terere is in a hollowed-out gourd, or "mate," and sipped through a metal straw, or "bombilla."
What are some popular Terere flavors?
Some popular Terere flavors include mint, lemon, and orange.
Related Recipes:
Did you make this recipe?
Recipe
Easy Paraguayan Terere
Ingredients
- Fresh herbs (if desired) are some popular herbs for the mate: mint, lemon verbena, lime leaves, lemongrass, etc.
- water
- ice
- Yerba Mate
Instructions
- Pour the yerba mate inside the gourd until it is about ½ full. Cover the mouth of the mate gourd with one hand, invert it and shake it vigorously for about 4 seconds. The purpose of this is to get the smallest particles to sit on the top of the preparation. Now place the gourd again in its position, taking care of the yerba mate to remain inclined on one side.
- Using a mortar, add desired herbs and crush them, then transfer them to the jug. Add ice and fill with water. Pour a little cold water into the gap you’ve made inside the gourd. Keep the gourd tilted until the Yerba Mate has absorbed the water.
- Cover the mouth of the bombilla with your thumb and put the filter end into the hollow part of the yerba mate. Uncover the bombilla only when you have found the definite position of the bombilla touching the bottom of the gourd. This way, you will keep the filter from blocking fine particles. Then, begin pouring the cold water softly inside the gourd– done! You can now enjoy your refreshing tereré Paraguayo!😊
Notes
- Yerba Mate: Similar to hot mate tea, the flavor of the yerba will deteriorate over time. It is recommended to replace the yerba with fresh yerba when the characteristic flavor is no longer noticeable.
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.