Maté and tereré are caffeinated beverages from the central and southern regions of South America. Indigenous peoples have enjoyed these traditional drinks for centuries. They can be served hot or cold. The hot version is called maté; the cold is tereré.
They are made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis holly plant. They have a high caffeine content that gives an energizing lift. The beverages contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and mateine, a milder form of caffeine.
Traditionally, maté and tereré are drunk from a gourd using a metal straw called a bombilla. Proper preparation starts by filling the gourd with dry leaves. Accessories like a gourd and bombilla can enhance the experience.
There are several popular brands to try, including Cruz de Malta, Taragui, and Rosamonte. Each has a distinct flavor profile. Organic versions tend to cost more due to special cultivation and production care. A 1-pound bag runs about $15.
The herbs’ earthy, bitter taste differs from sweeter matcha or mellower green tea. But maté and tereré offer higher energy-boosting power. They provide mental sharpness minus the acidity or crash of coffee. The drinks also contain compounds linked to health benefits.
Maté and tereré are herbal teas from South America with strong, smoky flavors. The best tasting versions grow in the rainforest shade. They provide an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients.
The drinks contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They may help with weight loss, blood lipid levels, and mental focus. The caffeine level is less than coffee. It is unlikely to pose risks for healthy adults drinking moderate amounts.
In South America, people drink 1-4 liters of maté and tereré per day. The flavors have herbal and bitter notes. They are commonly consumed in the morning or evening. Argentinians drink the hot version in winter and as tereré (with lemonade) in summer.
Sharing maté and tereré is a cherished social tradition. It forges emotional connections between people. The ritual is as valued as the drinks themselves for Argentinians. Drinking them is ingrained in their culture and identity.
Whether you’re looking for more brands to try, the best prices/deals, or just a store able to ship to your country so you can finally get a taste of these herbs, the stores below have you covered. PampaDirect is a fairly new online store but they’ve already gained my trust and loyalty as a customer. Continue reading to find the best brand for your preference.
Recommended brands
Rosamonte Special Selection was the first traditional blend that I tried, and I must say that it is a very nice one. Even today it’s still one of my favorites due to its smooth and relatively mild taste, which still has pleasant complexity. I recommend it to everyone, especially beginners!
Where to purchase
- Amazon has a large selection of loose leaf teas for a reasonable price.
- Ethnic Markets sell products of particular cultures. If you wish to purchase maté and tereré, look for Brazilian or Paraguayan food markets.
This stainless steel thermos from Balibetov is designed specially to hold and drink maté and tereré hot drinks. It has leak-proof lid with straw to savour the tea, just like from your gourd with bombilla.