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Vegan Horchata

A creamy, dairy-free Spanish-Mexican beverage made from soaked rice and almonds, naturally sweetened with maple syrup and flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 glasses
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Spanish-Mexican
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup raw almonds
  • 3/4 cup short-grain white rice
  • 4 cups filtered water plus more for soaking
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon plus more for garnish
  • Pinch of sea salt

Equipment

  • High-powered blender
  • Fine-mesh strainer or nut milk bag
  • Cheesecloth
  • Large bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Pitcher or glasses

Method
 

  1. Combine 1 cup raw almonds and 3/4 cup short-grain white rice in a large bowl and cover with cool water by about two inches; soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Drain and rinse the soaked almonds and rice under cool running water for 30 seconds to remove sediment.
  3. Transfer the drained almonds and rice to a high-powered blender; add 4 cups fresh filtered water.
  4. Blend on high speed for 2 to 3 minutes, stopping to stir halfway, until mixture is completely smooth.
  5. Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth into a pitcher or bowl; let drip for 5 to 10 minutes without pressing the solids.
  6. Pour the strained liquid back into the blender and add 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt; blend on low for 30 seconds until combined.
  7. Refrigerate the horchata in a pitcher for at least 2 hours until thoroughly chilled.
  8. Stir or shake before serving; pour over ice and garnish with a pinch of ground cinnamon.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; shake or stir before serving.