Horchata
Mexican

Horchata

Refreshing Mexican rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar, served ice-cold.

RiceRice
CinnamonCinnamon
VanillaVanilla
SugarSugar
MilkMilk
AlmondAlmond
Medium3.5 hours

Where it comes from

Horchata is a refreshing Mexican beverage with ancient origins, believed to have been enjoyed by the Aztecs. Traditionally made from rice, it embodies the culinary heritage of blending simple ingredients to create something delightful. Often served chilled, this creamy drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla is a staple at celebrations and street stalls, capturing the essence of Mexican hospitality.

On the Palate

HeatRichnessComplexityFermentFreshness

How it's made

5 steps · Show
25 min active · 180 min waiting
  1. 1
    5 min

    Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a cinnamon stick in a blender. Blend until the rice is coarsely ground.

  2. 2
    5 min

    Pour the rice mixture into a large bowl and add 2 more cups of water. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 3 hours or overnight to infuse.

  3. 3
    5 min

    Strain the rice mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.

  4. 4
    5 min

    Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 cups of milk. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. Adjust sweetness to taste.

  5. 5
    5 min

    Chill the horchata in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve over ice with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top.

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