Horchata de Chufa (Valencian Tiger Nut Milk Drink)
The Quirky Foodster Team
Ingredients
- Tiger nuts (chufas), soaked 24-48 hours — 250 g (8.8 oz)
- Cold water — 1 L (4 1/4 cups)
- Sugar, or to taste — 80 g (2.8 oz)
- Cinnamon stick (optional) — 1
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Method
- Drain and rinse the soaked tiger nuts thoroughly.
- Blend the tiger nuts with the cold water until as smooth as possible, about 3-4 minutes.
- Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes to allow full flavour extraction.
- Strain through a fine cheesecloth or nut milk bag, squeezing to extract all the liquid.
- Stir in sugar to taste, along with cinnamon or lemon zest if using.
- Chill thoroughly and serve very cold, stirring before pouring as it settles.
Introduction: Horchata de chufa is a creamy, subtly sweet drink made from tiger nuts (chufas), a tuber cultivated for centuries around Valencia.
Cultural Background: Horchata de chufa is a creamy, subtly sweet drink made from tiger nuts (chufas), a tuber cultivated for centuries around Valencia. Distinct from Mexican rice-based horchata, this Spanish original is a beloved warm-weather refreshment, often served with fartons (sweet pastries) for dipping.
Tips: Soaking the tiger nuts long enough is essential for a smooth, creamy result — do not rush this step.
Variations: Some recipes blend in a few soaked almonds or rice for extra creaminess, though this departs from the pure Valencian version.
Nutrition: Approx. 120 kcal, 1g protein, 22g carbohydrate, 3g fat per serving.
FAQs:
Q: Where can I find tiger nuts?
A: They are sold dried in specialty grocers and online, particularly at Spanish or Latin American markets.
Q: How long does horchata keep?
A: Best consumed within 1-2 days refrigerated, as it has no preservatives and separates over time.
- Tiger nuts (chufas), soaked 24-48 hours — 250 g (8.8 oz)
- Cold water — 1 L (4 1/4 cups)
- Sugar, or to taste — 80 g (2.8 oz)
- Cinnamon stick (optional) — 1
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Please log in to leave a comment.