What is the Cold Herbal Tea Paraguayans Drink?

Paraguay is a country rich in culture, tradition, and unique customs. One of the most iconic aspects of Paraguayan culture is its herbal tea, known as Tereré. Often enjoyed during hot days, Tereré is a cold herbal infusion made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, commonly known as yerba mate. While yerba mate is also consumed as a hot tea in other parts of South America, the Paraguayan version stands out due to its cold preparation. This post will explore everything you need to know about this cold herbal tea Paraguayans drink, its origins, preparation, health benefits, and cultural significance.

Table of Contents:

1. What is Tereré?
2. The History of Tereré
3. How is Tereré Prepared?
4. Health Benefits of Tereré
5. The Cultural Significance of Tereré in Paraguay
6. Tereré vs. Hot Yerba Mate: What’s the Difference?
7. Final Thoughts on Tereré: The Cold Herbal Tea Paraguayans Drink

1. What is Tereré?

Tereré is the traditional cold herbal tea Paraguayans drink, made from yerba mate leaves and cold water. Unlike hot yerba mate, which is popular in Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, Tereré is served cold, often over ice. It’s typically sipped through a metal straw called a bombilla from a hollowed-out gourd or cup known as a guampa. The taste is refreshing and can vary depending on the herbs and flavors added to the yerba mate.

What makes Tereré distinct is its adaptability to the climate of Paraguay. During the hot summer months, when temperatures can soar, Paraguayans seek relief by sipping this cold herbal drink, often enjoyed in social settings with friends and family. It’s more than just a beverage – it’s a tradition.

2. The History of Tereré

Tereré’s origins date back centuries, long before the arrival of Europeans in South America. The indigenous Guaraní people were among the first to harvest and consume yerba mate. They believed in its medicinal properties, using it to boost energy and improve concentration. When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they quickly adopted the local practice of drinking yerba mate, contributing to the widespread consumption of this herbal beverage across South America.

However, while yerba mate is drunk hot in countries like Argentina and Brazil, Paraguay developed its own unique cold version – Tereré. The practice of drinking cold yerba mate likely evolved to suit Paraguay’s tropical climate, where cold beverages provide much-needed relief from the heat. By the early 20th century, Tereré had become an integral part of Paraguayan culture, a symbol of relaxation, friendship, and tradition.

3. How is Tereré Prepared?

Preparing Tereré, the cold herbal tea Paraguayans drink, is a simple yet meticulous process. The key to a good Tereré lies in the quality of yerba mate and the preparation method. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how Tereré is traditionally made:

a) Ingredients Needed:

• Yerba mate (preferably coarse-cut for a stronger flavor)
• Cold water or iced water
• Optional: additional herbs or medicinal plants (called yuyos)
• A guampa (cup) and bombilla (metal straw)
• Ice cubes (for extra refreshment)

b) Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Fill the Guampa: First, fill your guampa about two-thirds full with yerba mate. Gently tilt the cup so the yerba mate sits at an angle.
2. Add Ice and Herbs: Many Paraguayans like to add yuyos to their Tereré for a more aromatic and medicinal infusion. Popular herbs include mint, boldo, and cedron. You can also add ice cubes directly into the guampa for an extra cool drink.
3. Insert the Bombilla: Place the bombilla into the yerba mate, ensuring it’s positioned firmly at the bottom of the guampa. This straw has a filter at the end to keep the leaves out of the mouth while sipping.
4. Pour Cold Water: Slowly pour cold water (or iced water) into the guampa. Be sure to saturate the yerba mate leaves without overfilling the cup.
5. Enjoy and Refill: Sip the Tereré through the bombilla. After each round, the guampa can be refilled with more cold water and passed to the next person, continuing the cycle. In group settings, Tereré is shared in a communal and social way.

4. Health Benefits of Tereré

In addition to being a refreshing drink, Tereré offers numerous health benefits. The cold herbal tea Paraguayans drink is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a health-boosting beverage. Here are some key benefits of drinking Tereré:

a) Rich in Antioxidants

Yerba mate contains powerful antioxidants like polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Regular consumption of Tereré can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

b) Boosts Energy Levels

Similar to coffee and tea, yerba mate contains natural caffeine. Drinking Tereré provides a mild energy boost without the jitteriness associated with coffee. It’s often consumed as a natural stimulant to improve focus and alertness.

c) Aids in Digestion

The herbs added to Tereré, such as mint and boldo, are known for their digestive properties. They help to soothe the stomach, reduce bloating, and improve overall digestion.

d) Hydration and Cooling Effect

Since Tereré is served cold and often consumed with water, it’s a great way to stay hydrated, particularly during hot weather. Its cooling effect also helps lower body temperature.

e) Supports Weight Loss

Some studies suggest that yerba mate can promote weight loss by boosting metabolism and aiding in fat oxidation. While more research is needed, regular consumption of Tereré may contribute to weight management.

5. The Cultural Significance of Tereré in Paraguay

Tereré is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of Paraguayan identity. The cold herbal tea Paraguayans drink plays a central role in social gatherings, family time, and even work breaks. Much like tea ceremonies in Asia or coffee rituals in Europe, Tereré serves as a moment of connection and relaxation.

a) Social Bonding

Sharing Tereré with friends or family is a common Paraguayan custom. In fact, the act of passing the guampa from person to person is a symbol of trust and companionship. Tereré circles are often seen in public parks, homes, and workplaces, where people come together to enjoy the refreshing drink and socialize.

b) National Pride

Tereré holds a special place in Paraguay’s national identity. In 2011, the Paraguayan Congress declared the last Saturday of February as “National Tereré Day,” recognizing the beverage as a part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage. This recognition further solidified Tereré’s role as a unifying symbol of Paraguayan tradition.

6. Tereré vs. Hot Yerba Mate: What’s the Difference?

While yerba mate is consumed throughout South America, there is a distinct difference between Tereré (cold yerba mate) and traditional hot yerba mate. Here are some key differences between the two:

a) Temperature

The most obvious difference is the temperature. Tereré is served cold, often with ice, whereas traditional yerba mate is prepared with hot water. The cold nature of Tereré makes it perfect for Paraguay’s warm climate.

b) Flavors and Additives

Tereré is often infused with additional herbs and medicinal plants, known as yuyos. These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add to the drink’s medicinal properties. Hot yerba mate is usually consumed in its pure form, although some people may add sweeteners or milk.

c) Time and Place

Tereré is typically enjoyed during the day when the temperature is highest, providing a refreshing break from the heat. On the other hand, hot yerba mate is often drunk in the mornings or evenings, when the temperature is cooler.

7. Final Thoughts on Tereré: The Cold Herbal Tea Paraguayans Drink

In conclusion, Tereré is a unique and refreshing cold herbal tea Paraguayans drink that reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and love for community. Made from yerba mate leaves and infused with cold water and herbs, Tereré is much more than just a beverage – it’s a way of life in Paraguay. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends and family, Tereré offers a variety of health benefits, from boosting energy to aiding digestion.

If you’re ever in Paraguay, be sure to try Tereré for yourself. Its distinct flavor, refreshing coolness, and cultural significance make it a drink worth savoring. Whether you’re sipping it in a park with friends or relaxing at home, you’ll soon see why Tereré has remained a beloved Paraguayan tradition for centuries.