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Tereré

Serves 4 Beverage vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian, Beverages

Tereré

Tereré hails from the sun-drenched provinces of Formosa and Corrientes in northeastern Argentina, where the heat can be relentless. This refreshing beverage is a staple for cooling down, offering a reprieve from the midday sun. Unlike its hot cousin, traditional mate, Tereré is enjoyed cold, making it a popular choice for those seeking relief in the shade.

Sipping Tereré is like tasting the freshness of a citrus grove under a clear sky. The earthy, grassy notes of yerba mate are enlivened by the crispness of ice-cold water and the zing of citrus. This drink is a symphony of cool and invigorating flavors, perfect for quenching thirst and rejuvenating the spirit on a sweltering day.

Ingredients

  • 150 g (5 oz)yerba mate
  • cold waterand ice, as needed
  • lemon or peel — optional

Method

  1. Begin by selecting a suitable gourd or a tall glass for your tereré. Measure out 150 g (5 oz) of yerba mate and carefully load it into the gourd or glass. Tilt the container slightly so that the yerba forms a slope, with one side higher than the other. This will help in placing the bombilla and ensures even extraction of flavors.
  2. Insert the bombilla, a metal straw with a filter at the bottom, into the lower side of the yerba slope. Make sure it is secure and does not disturb the yerba too much. The bombilla should be placed at an angle, not straight down, to prevent clogging and to allow for a smooth draw of liquid.
  3. Prepare a jug or pitcher of cold water, ensuring it is filled with plenty of ice. The water should be as cold as possible to maintain the refreshing quality of tereré. Pour the ice water gently into the gourd or glass, wetting the yerba on the lower side first, and fill until the water level is just below the top of the yerba.
  4. As you drink, the water will be absorbed by the yerba. Refill the gourd or glass with more ice water as needed, maintaining the water level to keep the yerba hydrated. This process is known as 'refilling the round' and can continue as long as the yerba retains its flavor.
  5. If you prefer a citrusy note, add a slice of lemon or a strip of lemon peel to the water before pouring it over the yerba. The citrus will infuse with the mate, adding a refreshing twist to the drink. Adjust the amount of citrus to your taste preference.
  6. Throughout the drinking process, ensure that the water remains cold. If the ice melts and the water warms, replenish with more ice to keep the tereré refreshing. The cold temperature is crucial for the authentic experience and the cooling effect it provides in hot weather.