horchata base recipe

Making rice milk is really as simple as blending softened rice with water to pull the starch from the grains and suspend in the water. Horchata, the traditional Mexican beverage, adds almonds, cinnamon, and brown sugar to sweeten.

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Combine the rice, almonds, and cinnamon in a frying pan and toast until fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, bring 4 cups [1 L] of water to a boil. Transfer the toasted rice mixture to a large bowl and pour the just-boiled water over the mixture. Add the brown sugar and a pinch of salt. Let steep for 2 hours or until the rice is soft.

Step 3

Remove the cinnamon sticks and blend the mixture in a high-powered blender until smooth. Serve over ice.