Enjoy the refreshing taste of horchata at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Made with a few simple ingredients, including rice, almonds, and cinnamon, this homemade horchata is sure to become a favorite. Perfect for hot summer days or as a delicious treat any time of the year. Prepare this drink in just 15 minutes and serve it chilled for a tasty and satisfying beverage.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup blanched almonds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cups water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (optional)
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a blender, combine the rice, almonds, and cinnamon stick with 2 cups of water.
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher or large bowl.
- Discard the solids and return the strained liquid to the blender.
- Add the sugar, remaining 2 cups of water, and vanilla extract to the blender.
- Blend on high until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar.
- If desired, add the milk to the blender and blend for a few seconds to incorporate.
- Refrigerate the horchata for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir the horchata well and pour it into glasses filled with ice.
- Sprinkle with ground cinnamon, if desired, and serve cold.
Interesting Facts
Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made from rice.
It is believed to have originated in Valencia, Spain.
Blanching almonds helps create a smooth texture in the horchata.
Horchata is often served over ice as a refreshing beverage.
The addition of milk is optional and can be adjusted to personal preference.