Horchata Water with Almond

Almond Horchata Water Recipe

Hello! We are going to prepare a delicious and refreshing almond horchata water. This drink combines the smoothness of almond with the aromatic touch of cinnamon and the freshness of lemon. Perfect for any time of day, especially for those looking for a natural and nutritious alternative to industrial soft drinks.

Preparation time

Here is a summary of the times so you can organize yourself better:

• Preparation: 10 active minutes + overnight soaking
• Cooking: Not applicable
• Total: 8 hours (including soaking)
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the horchata

• ⅓ cup long-grain rice
• 1 piece (2.5 cm) Mexican cinnamon
• 2 strips of lime or lemon peel plus zest for garnish
• 1 cup blanched whole almonds, lightly toasted
• 1 ½ cups of sugar
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 6 cups hot water
• 4 cups of cold water

If you can't find blanched almonds, you can use raw almonds and easily remove their skin by soaking them in boiling water for one minute. You can also use substitutes like commercial almond milk, but you will lose the homemade and fresh touch.

Utensils we will use

• Large bowl for soaking
• Blender or food processor
• Fine sieve or chinois
• Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth (similar to a cotton straining cloth)
• Wooden spoon
• Pitcher or container with a 2-liter capacity
• Knife and cutting board for peeling rinds and cutting cinnamon (optional)

Preparation

1. Pulverize the rice

1. Prepare the rice: Place the rice in a blender or spice grinder and grind until it has a fine flour-like texture. This helps to better extract the flavors and gives body to the drink.
2. Transfer the rice: Transfer the ground rice to a large bowl where you will mix the other ingredients.

2. Toast and prepare the almonds

1. Toast the almonds: Place the almonds in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they slightly change color and release their aroma. This enhances their flavor in the horchata.
2. Let cool: Remove the almonds and let them cool to prevent the heat from affecting the mixture in the next step.

3. Soak the ingredients

1. Add cinnamon and rinds: Add the cinnamon sticks and lemon or lime peel strips to the bowl with the ground rice.
2. Add almonds and hot water: Incorporate the toasted almonds along with the 6 cups of hot water to help release the flavors.
3. Soak overnight: Cover the bowl, letting the mixture rest for at least 8 hours or overnight so that the rice, cinnamon, and almonds hydrate well and release their aromas.

4. Blend and strain the horchata

1. Blend the mixture: Pour the soaked contents into the blender and process until a very smooth and homogeneous mixture is obtained.
2. Add more water: Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water and mix well.
3. Strain carefully: Strain the mixture into a pitcher using a fine-mesh sieve or a clean cheesecloth. To extract more liquid, gently press the solids with a wooden spoon.
4. Repeat if necessary: If the mixture still has chunks, blend those parts with a little of the strained liquid and strain again to achieve the finest texture.

5. Sweeten and flavor

1. Add sugar and vanilla: Incorporate the sugar and vanilla extract and mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Taste and adjust: Taste the horchata and adjust the sweetness according to your preference. You can also add more lime zest for an additional fresh touch.

To finish and serve

Remove the cinnamon sticks and lime peels to avoid bitter flavors. Serve the horchata very cold, with plenty of ice and a pinch of lime zest on top for decoration. This drink is ideal to accompany Mexican dishes or as a natural refreshment on warm days.

I want to share these tips with you

• Control the sweetness: Simple syrup or sugar can vary in sweetness, so adjust to taste so it doesn't become too cloying.
• Toast almonds: Don't burn them, just lightly brown them to avoid a bitter taste.
• Sufficient soaking: Long soaking allows the ingredients to soften well and the drink to be creamier.
• Careful straining: To avoid pulp or lumps, cheesecloth or a clean cloth is essential, and make sure to press gently.
• Storage: Store the horchata in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days to maintain its freshness.
• Variations: You can use fresh pineapple water with ginger and mint to accompany or combine flavors in drinks.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Proteins: 3 g
• Fats: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g

These values are approximate per serving and may vary depending on the type of almond and sugar used.

5 keys to make it perfect

• Ingredient quality: Use fresh almonds and long-grain rice for a better flavor.
• Adequate soaking: Let soak for at least 8 hours to soften the grains and nuts.
• Toast the almonds carefully: Do not overheat to avoid burnt flavors.
• Strain twice: Avoid pulp residue that can cloud the drink.
• Always refrigerate: Serve cold, which enhances flavors and provides freshness.

When is it ideal to enjoy it?

Almond horchata water is perfect for cooling down on hot summer days. It is also an ideal accompaniment for Mexican meals like tacos or quesadillas, thanks to its smooth and sweet flavor that contrasts very well with spicy dishes. Furthermore, it is a versatile drink for family gatherings, outdoor parties, or even for a healthy break during the afternoon.

Comparison with other similar drinks

Share your experience

Cooking is for experimenting and sharing. Did you dare to prepare this horchata water with almond? How did it turn out? Did you try making variations with less sugar or adding other spices? We would love to know your tricks and tips, leave us your comment so we can all learn and enjoy together.