Easy Tereré Recipe (Iced Yerba Mate)

Tereré is a refreshing cold beverage made with yerba mate, perfect for hot days. Here’s how to prepare it traditionally:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 tbsp yerba mate- Green
• Ice cubes
• 500ml cold water (preferably chilled or iced)
• Optional: citrus slices (lime, lemon, or orange), fresh mint, or herbal infusions for flavour

Instructions:

1. Fill the Mate Cup:
   Add 2 tablespoons of yerba mate Green to a cup. Tilt the cup slightly so the yerba mate gathers on one side, leaving space on the other.
2. Insert the Bombilla:
   Place the bombilla (metal straw) into the empty side of the cup. Be careful not to move it once inserted.
3. Add Ice Cubes:
   Fill the gourd or glass with ice cubes to keep the drink cool.
4. Pour Cold Water:
   Slowly pour cold water over the yerba mate, ensuring it doesn’t overflow. Let the yerba absorb the water for a few seconds.
5. Optional Flavours:
   Enhance your tereré with slices of lime, lemon, or orange. Add fresh mint leaves or prepare a flavoured cold water infusion (e.g., chamomile or lemongrass tea) to replace plain water.
6. Refill and Share:
   Sip through the bombilla and refill with more cold water as needed. In traditional settings, tereré is shared among friends, passing the gourd around in a gesture of connection and hospitality.

Tips for a Perfect Tereré:

• Use a thermos with ice water to keep your tereré chilled for longer.
• If you don’t have a bombilla, you can brew tereré in an infusion bottle or steep yerba mate in a tea strainer and serve it over ice.

Enjoy this cooling, energising drink on warm days or anytime you need a refreshing boost!