Name: Horchata: A Refreshing Mexican Rice Drink
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice; 2 Mexican cinnamon sticks; 4 cups hot water; 2 cups milk or almond milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ⅓ to ½ cup granulated sugar (to taste)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Horchata is a traditional Mexican beverage known for its creamy texture and sweet, cinnamon-infused flavor. This homemade version offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes or a refreshing treat on its own. Whether you’re looking to cool down on a hot day or add a special touch to your meal, horchata is sure to impress.

Horchata: A Refreshing Mexican Rice Drink

Ingredients

1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
2 Mexican cinnamon sticks
4 cups hot water
2 cups milk or almond milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
⅓ to ½ cup granulated sugar, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Blend the Rice and Cinnamon: In a blender, combine the uncooked rice, 2 cups of hot water, and the Mexican cinnamon sticks. Blend until the rice is roughly ground.
Add Remaining Water: Add the remaining 2 cups of hot water to the blender and blend again to mix thoroughly.
Refrigerate: Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Strain: After the resting period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher, discarding the solid rice and cinnamon bits.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the milk (or almond milk), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar to taste. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
Serve: Serve the horchata over ice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 8 hours
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Vegan Option: Use almond milk or another plant-based milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
Sweetener Alternatives: Substitute granulated sugar with agave syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute of your choice.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist or a few drops of almond extract for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover horchata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving: Stir well before serving, as ingredients may settle. Serve chilled over ice.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

While white rice is traditional for horchata, you can experiment with brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Note that brown rice may require a longer soaking time.

Is horchata gluten-free?

Yes, horchata is naturally gluten-free as it is made from rice and water. However, always check the labels of any added ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I make horchata without soaking the rice overnight?

Soaking the rice overnight helps to soften it, making blending easier and enhancing the flavor. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 4 hours can suffice, but overnight soaking is recommended for the best results.

How can I make horchata spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño to the blending mixture for a spicy kick.

Can I use a different type of cinnamon?

Mexican cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is preferred for its subtle flavor, but you can substitute with regular cinnamon sticks if necessary.

Is horchata served hot or cold?

Horchata is traditionally served cold over ice, making it a refreshing summer beverage.

Can I add alcohol to horchata?

For an adult version, you can add a shot of rum or cinnamon schnapps to your horchata.

How do I prevent horchata from separating?

Stir the horchata before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Can I make horchata without milk?

Yes, you can omit the milk and use additional water for a lighter version of horchata.

Can I use a blender to strain the horchata?

While a blender can help in mixing, it’s best to strain the horchata through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the solid particles.

Conclusion

Horchata is a delightful and versatile beverage that brings a taste of Mexican tradition to your home. With its creamy texture and sweet, cinnamon flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing summer drink or a comforting treat, this horchata recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.