Traditional Mexican Horchata
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1-12 oz. can evaporated milk
- 1-12 oz can condensed milk
- 8 cups of warm water
divided
- Sugar to taste
- Ground cinnamon to garnish
optional
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
optional
Directions
- 1
Wash and drain the rice. Place the rice, cinnamon sticks (see note #1 below) and 4 cups of water into a bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight (preferably) or a minimum of 4 hours.
- 2
Once you're ready to blend the rice, remove most of the cinnamon sticks but it's okay to leave small pieces with the rice.
- 3
Blend the rice in two separate batches by adding 1/2 of the rice & water with some of the cinnamon stick left behind. Puree until it's very smooth and it forms a paste like texture. About 4 minutes long.
- 4
Using a very fine strainer (or some cheese cloth) pour the blended mixture over a pitcher. Strain out as much liquid as possible, pushing on the solids with a spatula or spoon.
- 5
Repeat this process for the rest of the rice, water & cinnamon mixture.
- 6
Stir in the milks, vanilla (0ptional), and 4 cups of water. Stir well.
- 7
Taste and add more sugar or water if needed.
- 8
Chill and stir before serving over ice.
Traditional Mexican Horchata
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About this Recipe
Craving the creamy, sweet, and comforting taste of authentic Horchata? Skip the store-bought mixes and learn how to make the best homemade Traditional Mexican Horchata right in your kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe brings the beloved refreshment directly to you, made with simple ingredients you'll love.
This recipe works because it relies on a classic combination of ingredients, starting with uncooked white rice and cinnamon sticks to build that signature flavor foundation. By using both evaporated milk and condensed milk, you achieve a rich, velvety texture and perfect sweetness that sets this homemade version apart from thinner, less flavorful alternatives. It’s a truly authentic taste experience, made with care.
You can expect a beautifully milky, sweet beverage with a distinct, warm cinnamon essence that's incredibly refreshing when chilled. The texture is smooth and creamy, a delightful treat for any palate. This Horchata is designed to be a comforting and satisfying drink, evoking the flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine without a hint of artificiality. It’s a simple pleasure that feels indulgent.
Feel free to adjust the sugar to taste to achieve your ideal level of sweetness. For an extra layer of aromatic warmth, don't hesitate to include the optional vanilla. You can also play with the amount of ground cinnamon used for garnish, or even infuse the water with additional spices like star anise if you're feeling adventurous. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences.
Serve this authentic Horchata well-chilled, perhaps over ice, for a perfect accompaniment to any meal, a refreshing pick-me-up, or a delightful treat on its own. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an elegant finish.