28 Juli 2026

How to prepare a Tereré

Discover Tereré, the cold, refreshing twist on yerba mate. Learn what you need and how to prepare this fruity summer drink at home.

Sure, the traditional way of drinking mate is through a warm infusion in a calabaza. However, why not enjoy its cold, refreshing variant on a sunny summer day? We’re talking here about Tereré, a drink made from cold-brewed yerba mate, herbs, and fruits.

Tereré, especially popular in Paraguay but celebrated in various countries in Latin America, is a delicious drink, perfect for those moments when you’re craving something sweet and refreshing but still want that familiar mate flavor.

What ingredients do you need for Tereré?

There is no single recipe for the perfect Tereré. Everyone has their own twist, and we recommend experimenting with different variants. Typically, you will need:

Water, lemonade, or orange Juice: If you use juice, make sure to dilute it a bit so the taste isn’t too overpowering.
Ice: Essential for keeping the drink cool, especially on a sunny summer day.
Aromatic herbs: Popular choices include lemongrass or mint, but feel free to explore other varieties.
Fresh fruits: Citrus fruits like orange and lime, or other exotic fruits, add a wonderful flavor to your drink.
Yerba Mate: We recommend our Yerba Mate Matero con Palo, the perfect companion for your Tereré.
Sugar: For those with a sweet tooth, you can add a bit of sugar to the mix.

How to make a Tereré

Prepare the liquid base: In a large jug, mix the water (or juice), herbs, fruits, and enough ice. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Prepare the Yerba Mate:

Fill a cup or a glass halfway with yerba mate.
Place your palm over the opening of the cup, flip it upside down, and give it a good shake. This helps move the smaller particles to the top and the larger ones to the bottom.
Optionally, cover the yerba with lukewarm water for a few minutes to let it infuse.