Horchata
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Long-grain rice — 1 cup (185 g / 6.5 oz)
- Cinnamon stick — 1
- Warm water, divided — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz)
- Sugar, or to taste — 1/2 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz)
- Milk — 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz)
- Vanilla extract — 1 tsp
Method
- Combine the rice, cinnamon stick and 2 cups of warm water in a bowl or blender jar, and let soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Blend the soaked rice and cinnamon with the soaking water until as smooth as possible.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a jug, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible; discard the solids.
- Stir in the remaining water, sugar, milk and vanilla.
- Chill well before serving over ice, stirring again just before pouring as it can settle.
Introduction: A creamy, lightly sweetened rice milk drink flavoured with cinnamon, served chilled over ice as one of Mexico’s most refreshing traditional beverages.
Cultural Background: Horchata arrived through Spanish influence but was reimagined in Mexico using rice rather than the tiger nuts of the original Spanish version, becoming a fixture at taquerias and street stalls, especially welcome in the country’s hot climate.
Tips: Soak the rice for the full time recommended, as this softens it enough to blend smoothly. Strain thoroughly for a smooth, silky texture rather than a gritty one.
Variations: Add a few soaked almonds to the blender for extra richness. Adjust the sweetness and dilution to taste with more or less water.
Storage: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, stirring well before serving.
Reheating: This drink is served cold and is not reheated.
Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 150 kcal, 2 g protein, 3 g fat, 28 g carbohydrate.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make horchata without a blender?
A: A blender is strongly recommended to properly break
Q: Is horchata always made with rice?
A: In Mexico, yes; other countries have their own horchata
- Long-grain rice — 1 cup (185 g / 6.5 oz)
- Cinnamon stick — 1
- Warm water, divided — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz)
- Sugar, or to taste — 1/2 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz)
- Milk — 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz)
- Vanilla extract — 1 tsp
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