What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 3 cups of water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 cup of milk (can be substituted with almond or soy milk for a vegan version)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust according to your taste)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Ice cubes
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by rinsing the white rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Once rinsed, place the rice in a bowl and cover it with water. Let it soak for about 2 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Blend the Rice
Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a blender. Add 1 cup of water and blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 3: Infuse with Cinnamon
In a saucepan, pour the rice mixture and add 2 cups of water. Drop in the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool down. Once cooled, remove the cinnamon stick. Add the milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
Step 5: Strain and Chill
Place a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a pitcher. Slowly pour the horchata mixture through the sieve to strain out any remaining rice grains. Discard the rice solids. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate the horchata for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled horchata over the ice. Give it a quick stir and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Sip and enjoy the refreshing taste of your homemade horchata!
Now that you know how to make horchata, it’s time to impress your friends and family with this delightful beverage. Experiment with different variations by adding a splash of almond or coconut milk or even a hint of cocoa powder. The possibilities are endless! So grab your blender, try out this step-by-step guide, and treat yourself to a glass of refreshing horchata today.