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Horchata

Horchata


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan

Description

Learn how to make perfect creamy and subtly sweet Horchata at home with simple, plant-based ingredients. This refreshing and soothing drink combines soaked long-grain white rice, aromatic cinnamon, natural maple syrup (natural) sweetness, almond milk (plant-based), and vanilla extract (natural) for a classic yet customizable beverage that’s both dairy-free and budget-friendly. Ideal for a cooling afternoon pick-me-up or a unique drink to impress guests.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cups filtered water
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
  • 1 cup almond milk (plant-based)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
  • Natural gelling agent (small amount, dissolved in warm water)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Soak the Rice and Cinnamon: Thoroughly rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Place the rinsed rice and 2 cinnamon sticks into a large bowl with 4 cups of filtered water. Allow to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften the rice and release the creamy flavor.
  2. Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the soaked rice, cinnamon sticks, and soaking water into a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and milky, breaking down the rice grains completely.
  3. Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve or clean cheesecloth into a large pitcher, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard or save the solids for baking if desired.
  4. Add Sweeteners and Flavors: To the strained liquid, add 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural), 1 cup almond milk (plant-based), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural). Stir well to combine. For a slightly thicker texture, whisk in a small amount of natural gelling agent dissolved in warm water.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the Horchata for at least 2 hours to intensify flavors and ensure it’s refreshingly cool. Stir well before serving over ice.

Notes

  • Use a high-speed blender for the creamiest texture.
  • Do not skip soaking the rice; it is key to flavor and smoothness.
  • Adjust the sweetness after chilling to your taste.
  • Try adding star anise or cardamom for a flavorful twist.
  • Always serve well chilled, over ice or straight from the fridge.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes plus soaking time
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Beverages
  • Method: Blending and soaking
  • Cuisine: Traditional Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 15 mg
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Horchata, plant-based drink, dairy-free beverage, cinnamon rice drink, vegan horchata, refreshing drink