Horchata Recipe
In this article, we'll explore the roots of horchata, provide a step-by-step guide to preparing it, highlight its nutritional value, and offer some variations to try at home.
Equipment
- Blender
- Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Pitcher or large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a blender, combine the rinsed rice, water, and cinnamon stick. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the rice is broken down but not completely smooth.
- Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop.
- After soaking, remove the cinnamon stick and blend the mixture again until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher or bowl, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Stir in sugar and vanilla extract until dissolved. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Chill the horchata in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve over ice cubes, if desired, and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for garnish.