Tereréa

Tereréa is a term that appears in some local usages to refer to a variant of tereré, the cold infusion of yerba mate. In standard references, tereré denotes the beverage prepared with cold water; tereréa is not widely recognized as a distinct drink in major food or beverage encyclopedias. The term may be a regional spelling variation or a colloquial form, and some menus or dictionaries list it as a variant spelling of tereré.

Preparation and ingredients: When tereréa is used, it follows the same basic method as tereré: yerba mate placed in a guampa or cup, a bombilla, and poured with cold water or a cold infusion. Flavorings such as citrus juice, mint, or pieces of fruit are sometimes added to the water. The beverage is typically prepared and shared in social settings, with refills provided as needed. Some local usages distinguish tereréa as a flavored variant or a preparation using fruit-flavored water rather than plain water.

Regional usage and cultural context: Tereré and its variants are central to Paraguayan social life, especially outdoors or during gatherings. While tereré is widely consumed in Paraguay and neighboring regions, the spelling tereréa is mostly found in local or informal contexts and does not have a standardized definition.

Health and dietary notes: Like tereré, tereréa contains caffeine from yerba mate; effects depend on the amount and type of mate used, and flavorings may add sugar or other ingredients.

See also: Tereré, Yerba Mate, Bombilla, Guampa.