Selena Gomez is responsible for our Horchata obsession. While the drink has become increasingly available in different countries, Gomez recently launched a Horchata-flavored cookie, prompting many to revisit the traditional Mexican drink and how to make their own at home.
Luckily, Horchata is incredibly simple and super delicious. Here's all you should know about the drink:
Horchata has existed for years, with different cultures adding in their own touches
While nowadays we link Horchata with Mexico, the history of the drink can be traced back to Egypt, with the ancient Egyptians making a version of it with tiger nuts. The drink then made its way to Spain, where it remains a staple, known as "Horchata de Chufa," and consumed mainly in the region of Valencia.
Since the drink made its way to the Americas, where various countries took it as their own, with the Mexicans developing its most popular form. Countries like Peru, Venezuela, and more, have their own versions of the drink, using corn, rice, and other ingredients for their milky and sweet concoction, called "Chicha," "Chicha morada," and more.
Take your rice and put it in the colander, rising it thoroughly. Place it into a bowl with a cinnamon stick and four cups of water. Let it cool overnight in a sealed container.
Blend half of the rice mixture and half of the water in a blender alongside a piece of the cinnamon stick. Mix until a smooth paste is formed.
Place the mixture through a cheese cloth or a fine strainer, trying to get as much water out of the mixture as you can.
Repeat this process with the remaining halfs of soaked rice and water.
Stir in the condensed milk alongside 4 cups of water to the original mixture, blending until homogenous. Add more or less condensed milk depending on how sweet you want the drink.
