Horchata Recipe

Horchata Recipe

Horchata is a creamy, refreshing, and naturally sweetened Mexican drink made with rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. It’s a staple in Mexican cuisine, often enjoyed as a cool beverage on a hot day or paired with spicy dishes.

What is Horchata?

Horchata is a traditional Latin American drink with Spanish origins. While different regions have their own variations, the most common version in Mexico is made with soaked rice, cinnamon, and sugar. It is then blended, strained, and served over ice for a creamy, dairy-free refreshment.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon)
  • 4 cups water, divided
  • 1 cup milk (optional for extra creaminess)
  • ⅓ cup sugar (or more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Ice, for serving
  • Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Rice and Cinnamon

  1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, cinnamon sticks, and 2 cups of water.
  3. Cover and let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Blend the Mixture

  1. Transfer the soaked rice, cinnamon, and soaking water into a blender.
  2. Add 2 more cups of water and blend on high speed until smooth (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 3: Strain

  1. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove any solid particles.
  2. Press down on the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible.

Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor

  1. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (if using).
  2. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
  2. Serve over ice and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for extra flavor.

Tips

  • Use Long-Grain Rice: White rice works best for a smooth texture.
  • Soak for a Richer Flavor: The longer you soak the rice, the more flavorful the horchata.
  • Strain Well: To avoid a gritty texture, use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  • Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sugar based on your preference. You can also use honey, maple syrup, or condensed milk.

Variations

  • Vegan : Skip the milk or replace it with almond or oat milk.
  • Chocolate : Blend in cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.
  • Coconut : Add coconut milk for extra creaminess.

What to Serve with ?

Horchata pairs well with Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or churros. It’s also a great standalone treat on a warm day.

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