Easy Homemade Horchata!
Since introducing Coconut Horchata, a current vegan option at MELT, we’ve sort of fallen in love with the the drink that inspired it. This traditional beverage can be made in several different ways, but the classic version which our ice cream is based on is a sweet mix of cinnamon and rice milk. It might sound exotic and daunting, but it’s actually fairly simple to make a stellar batch at home. So, if you’ve recently joined us in this obsession, keep reading for our DIY horchata recipe!
The real game changer in this recipe is the toasting of the rice and cinnamon stick beforehand. It adds that extra, subtle flavor that will push you to the next level. We also found that using an immersion blender as opposed to a standing blender can save the (possibly messy) effort of taking ingredients in and out of the blender, instead allowing the whole process to take place in one large bowl. But, if you don't have the great blessing to own an immersion blender, then your trusty, standing version works just fine as well.
(Our awesome chef Catie helped us to tweak this recipe to make it even better)
INGREDIENTS:
1 CUP OF LONG GRAIN RICE, RINSED
1 CINNAMON STICK BROKEN INTO PIECES, PLUS MORE FOR GARNISHING
1/2 CUP OF SUGAR
STEPS:
Lightly toast rice and cinnamon stick over low heat
Combine toasted rice and cinnamon with 4 cups water in blender, pulse to coarsely grind. Transfer to large bowl and add another 4 cups of water, let soak at room temperature for at least three hours (overnight for even more flavor).
Puree mixture in batches in a blender until smooth. Strain through fine sieve, mix in sugar, chill.
Stir well, pour over ice, garnish with cinnamon sticks, PARTY!
And that's it! Super simple, super sweet way to prove to your friends that you are totally cultured and accomplished and interesting (because of course, you SO are). Try our home horchata, and let us know how it goes! And then come in for a scoop of Coconut Horchata while it lasts, because obviously everything is better in ice cream form.
The spoon in the image above is a part of our Tribe Alive line of retail. Get more info here!!
