National Dish Paraguay: Tereré (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Tereré, Paraguay’s most refreshing ritual in a cup! Made from green yerba mate steeped in ice-cold water, this cooling drink is the country’s answer to a scorching afternoon. Far more than a thirst-quencher, it is a social tradition passed hand to hand among friends and family. Brew a jug, gather round, and discover why Paraguayans reach for tereré all summer long.
About Tereré
Tereré is not just a traditional Paraguayan drink — it is a genuine part of the country’s cultural identity. It is made from green yerba mate and offers an intriguing alternative to hot mate, since it is served with cold water or fruity additions. On hot days in particular, tereré is the perfect thirst-quencher and delivers a delicious burst of refreshment. This distinctive way of preparing it does more than cool you down: it has a ritual character all of its own that strengthens the social bonds so central to life in Paraguay.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2–3 tablespoons green yerba mate
- 500 ml cold water
- Optional: fruity additions such as lemonade or fresh fruit
- Optional: a bombilla (metal drinking straw)
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for tereré are available in many supermarkets and specialist tea shops. Green yerba mate often comes in several varieties and flavours, giving you the freedom to tailor your drink to your own taste. The fruity additions, such as citrus fruits or mint, can likewise be chosen according to preference. Look for fresh, good-quality ingredients to get the very best flavour from your brew.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making tereré, make sure you have all the necessary utensils to hand. It is worth using a special clay jug or a thermos flask to keep the water cold for longer. The bombilla is also important, as it lets you sip the mate comfortably. If you would like to include fruity additions, chop them into small pieces so their flavour comes through both visually and on the palate.
Step-by-step instructions
- Fill a traditional drinking vessel such as a guampa or a glass about halfway with green yerba mate.
- Moisten the yerba lightly with a little water and press it down firmly to release the aromas more fully.
- Fill a large thermos flask with ice-cold water and ice cubes. Optionally, add fresh herbs (yuyos), citrus fruits or fruit juice.
- Insert the bombilla (a straw fitted with a filter) into the yerba.
- Pour the cold water over the yerba in stages and sip through the bombilla. Keep topping up until the yerba loses its flavour.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Tereré is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes it ideal for anyone with those intolerances. You need not give a second thought to gluten or lactose when preparing tereré. As long as you use fresh ingredients, you can adapt the drink entirely to your liking. Just make sure any additions you choose are also gluten- and lactose-free so you can enjoy your tereré with complete peace of mind — much like a naturally free-from Guava Juice.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Tereré is an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians, as it is made entirely from plant-based ingredients. Using fresh fruit and herbs makes the drink especially versatile and flavourful. Experiment with different flavour combinations and find the pairing that suits you best. Another bonus is that tereré is rich in antioxidants, making it a healthy way to quench your thirst.
More tips and tricks
To get the most out of your tereré, try different combinations of fruity additions to vary the aromas. From lime and mango to fresh herbs, the possibilities are endless. Experimenting with different water temperatures can also change the flavour. Many locals even use flavoured mineral water to give the drink an extra dimension of taste.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of tereré is that you can adapt it entirely to your own preferences. If you want a stronger aroma, increase the amount of yerba mate or lengthen the steeping time. If you prefer it milder, use less yerba or add more fruity ingredients. Be creative and bring your own personal flavours to the drink to craft a tereré that is uniquely yours.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have certain ingredients to hand, or simply fancy trying something different, there are plenty of alternatives. Instead of green yerba mate you could use another herbal tea that also lends itself to tereré. Fruity additions can vary too; try fresh berries or exotic fruits for an exciting twist. You can even change the base liquid, using coconut water or green tea to discover new flavour experiences.
Drink pairing ideas
Tereré is not only a drink in its own right but also pairs beautifully with other refreshments. A cooling fruit cocktail or a homemade lemonade goes wonderfully with a tereré evening. If you are planning a festive occasion, you might also serve alcohol-free cocktails alongside. For something sweeter to nibble, a slice of Torta Paraguaya makes a lovely companion. These combinations add extra enjoyment and make your tereré ritual truly memorable.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays an important role in the enjoyment of tereré. Use decorative glasses or traditional clay jugs to serve the drink in style. Garnish your tereré with fresh herbs or slices of citrus fruit for an appealing look. This lifts not only the flavour but the whole drinking experience to a new level — a lovely finish after a plate of Chipa.
A bit of history
The tradition of tereré has deep roots in Paraguayan culture, reaching back many centuries. Originally used by the indigenous Guaraní, the drink has grown over time into a symbol of sociability and togetherness. In many Paraguayan families, tereré is prepared daily and offers a way to spend time with friends and family. Sharing the drink has taken on cultural significance not only in Paraguay but in neighbouring countries too, and it remains a cornerstone of Paraguayan cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Tereré
Tereré is a refreshing, traditional drink from Paraguay that is not only delicious but also plays an important role in the country’s culture. Its simple preparation and the freedom to combine countless ingredients make it the ideal drink for hot days and sociable gatherings. Whether with fruity additions or enjoyed plain, tereré delights locals and visitors alike. Give it a try and discover for yourself just what this wonderful drink has to offer!
