Horchata
A refreshing traditional Mexican beverage made from rice milk, flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for a cooling treat.
Nutrition
Calories: 150cal
Carbohydrate: 29g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: – -mg
Sodium: 60mg
Difficulty Level: easy
10 min Prep
0 Cook
10 min Total
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cups water, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups almond milk or regular milk
- Ground cinnamon, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures a smoother horchata.
- In a large bowl, combine the rinsed rice, cinnamon sticks, and 2 cups of water. Let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will infuse the flavors and make it easier to blend.
- After soaking, remove the cinnamon sticks from the rice mixture. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can leave them in for blending.
- Transfer the rice and soaking liquid to a blender. Add the vanilla extract and the remaining 2 cups of water. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. If your blender is small, do this in batches.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher. Carefully strain the blended mixture, using a spoon or spatula to press out as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
- Stir in the granulated sugar until dissolved, then add the almond milk or regular milk. Mix well. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more sugar to your preference.
- Chill the horchata in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve the horchata over ice. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for a dash of extra flavor and aroma. Enjoy your homemade horchata!
