Chicha de Arroz
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- White rice, rinsed — 200 g (1 cup)
- Water, plus extra for soaking — 1 L (4 cups)
- Cinnamon stick — 1
- Condensed milk — 150 ml (2/3 cup)
- Vanilla extract — 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon, to garnish
- Ice, to serve
Method
- Soak the rinsed rice in water for at least 2 hours, or overnight, then drain.
- Combine the soaked rice with the 1 litre of fresh water and cinnamon stick in a saucepan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is very soft.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Blend the rice and its cooking liquid until smooth.
- Strain through a fine sieve into a jug, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Stir in the condensed milk and vanilla extract, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- Chill well, garnish with a dusting of ground cinnamon, and serve over ice.
Introduction: Chicha de arroz is a sweet, creamy rice-based beverage flavoured with condensed milk and cinnamon, sold widely by street vendors across Venezuela, especially popular as a cooling treat on hot days.
Cultural Background: Chicha de arroz is a sweet, creamy rice-based beverage flavoured with condensed milk and cinnamon, sold widely by street vendors across Venezuela, especially popular as a cooling treat on hot days.
Tips: Soaking the rice beforehand helps it cook down into a smoother, creamier base. Blend thoroughly for the smoothest texture before straining. Adjust the condensed milk to taste, as sweetness preferences vary.
Variations: Add a few shreds of lime zest for a bright, citrusy note. Use coconut milk in place of some of the water for a tropical variation. Adjust cinnamon to taste for a stronger or milder spice profile. Vegetarian as written; a vegan version can use a plant-based condensed milk alternative.
Storage: Refrigerate in a covered jug for up to 3 days, shaking or stirring before serving as it may settle.
Reheating: Not applicable — this is a cold beverage and is not reheated.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this drink ahead of time?
A: Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days; stir or shake well before serving as it may settle.
Q: Can I use a plant-based condensed milk?
A: Yes, a plant-based condensed milk alternative can be used to make this drink dairy-free.
Q: What's the best way to serve chicha de arroz?
A: Well chilled, over ice, with a dusting of ground cinnamon on top.
- White rice, rinsed — 200 g (1 cup)
- Water, plus extra for soaking — 1 L (4 cups)
- Cinnamon stick — 1
- Condensed milk — 150 ml (2/3 cup)
- Vanilla extract — 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon, to garnish
- Ice, to serve
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