Tereré

Similar to mate, tereré is a tea drink that originated in Paraguay and was invented by the Guarani people. Besides Paraguay, the beverage is also popular in Argentina and Brazil. It is an infusion of yerba mate that is prepared with cold water, ice cubes, and herbs such as mint, lemongrass, or lemon verbena.

This non-alcoholic drink is very refreshing and low in calories, and if it is made with the addition of fruit juice (orange, lime, or pineapple), the beverage is then known as tereré ruso. For centuries, it was considered a social beverage and is traditionally prepared in a large vessel that is shared between people, signifying trust and communion.