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Horchata

Horchata

  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including soaking time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Horchata is a refreshing, creamy, and naturally sweet plant-based beverage made from soaked long grain white rice, cinnamon sticks, plant-based milk, and natural sweeteners. This recipe delivers a soothing and thirst-quenching drink perfect for any season, customizable with various flavor twists and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cups filtered water (for soaking)
  • 2 cups plant-based milk (almond or oat preferred)
  • 1/4 cup natural sweetener (like maple syrup or agave nectar)
  • 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)

Instructions

  1. Soak the Rice and Cinnamon: Rinse 1 cup of long grain white rice under filtered water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 4 cups of filtered water in a large bowl. Let soak at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure a flavorful and soft base for blending.
  2. Blend the Mixture: Remove the cinnamon sticks and transfer the soaked rice and soaking water into a blender. Add 2 cups of your chosen plant-based milk, 1/4 cup natural sweetener such as maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract. Blend on high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is very smooth and creamy.
  3. Strain for Smoothness: Pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher. Use a spoon or spatula to press the mixture, extracting as much liquid as possible while leaving behind the rice pulp. This ensures a silky smooth texture perfect for Horchata.
  4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the strained Horchata for at least one hour until thoroughly chilled. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder. Optionally, add lemon zest or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a subtle refreshing tang.

Notes

  • Use room temperature water for soaking to help the rice release starch for creaminess.
  • Do not skip soaking, as it softens the rice and develops flavors.
  • Blend thoroughly to avoid gritty texture.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually to suit your taste preference.
  • Store refrigerated and shake well before serving due to natural separation.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Horchata, plant-based drink, rice drink, cinnamon drink, dairy-free, natural sweetener, refreshing beverage

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/horchata/