Homemade Horchata
Horchata is a traditional and refreshing beverage originating from the Valencia region in Spain but can also be found in various versions throughout Latin America. Made from infused rice, almonds, and cinnamon, it offers a sweet, creamy, and wonderfully refreshing flavor. This homemade recipe guides you step by step to create an authentic and flavorful Horchata that will enchant your taste buds during hot summer days. This non-alcoholic drink, delightfully aromatic, will undoubtedly please your entire family and guests. Enjoy it as it is or with a touch of rum for an adult version of this summer classic.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain dry rice
- 1/2 cup sliced or chopped almonds
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
- 6 to 8 cups of water
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (397g)
- 1 can evaporated milk (354ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preparation steps
- Boil 4 cups of water in a kettle or saucepan.
- In a large heat-resistant bowl, mix the dry rice, almonds, cinnamon stick, and salt.
- Pour the boiling water over the mixture in the bowl and stir well. Cover the bowl and let it cool in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Transfer the rice mixture to a blender, including the cinnamon stick, and blend until very smooth.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer over a 10-cup pitcher. Pour the rice mixture into the strainer to filter the liquid while retaining the solids.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract to the filtered liquid.
- Add additional cold water to reach a total of 9 to 10 cups of Horchata (9 cups for a thicker consistency, 10 cups for a lighter consistency).
- Chill until ready to serve. Stir before serving.
