What on Earth is Horchata? (plus a recipe)

This nutrient-packed, plant-based drink is all over Valencia in the Summer with both tourists and locals drinking it like it's going out of fashion? So... what IS horchata and what's so great about it anyway?

This tasty nut milk drink is found mainly in Spain and Mexico. However, not all horchatas are the same. This drink has been around for over a thousand years so it makes sense that the recipe would evolve over time and take advantage of the local ingredients available. Its long existence is also evidence of how this beverage is a healthier choice for a sweeter drink.

Horchata's origins are in North Africa where it was made using the tiger nut or "chufa" and consumed in ancient times. I does not spoil as quickly as dairy milk so it was perfect for taking on long journeys. The drink made its way to Spain when the Arabs migrated where it was still made using the original key ingredient of chufa grown locally in Valencia. The name is derived from Catalan word orxata. The Spaniards then took this drink with them to Mexico where it evolved further. Mexican horchata is generally made from rice or other nuts and often needs more sweetening than the original horchata de chufa.

Not only is horchata de chufa a tasty milky drink, it also has additional health benefits. As a great source of minerals, it is high in phosphorus, magnesium, iron and calcium. The tiger nut milk is also rich in vitamins C and E, helping to lower cholesterol levels. Full of fibre, this drink is great for your digestive system. It will help to keep you healthy and regular while also having a high enough starch content to avoid any constipation. The drink is also a diuretic and can help to prevent diarrhea. With a low calorie content, horchata makes a great choice for those who are health conscious but like an alternative to water.

To enjoy all of the health benefits as well the refreshing qualities of horchata de chufa, remember to look for horchata naturale. Sometimes extra sugars or salts are added that can offset the great qualities of this drink, so remember to ask!

Make your own Horchata de Chufa

If you can get your hands on some chufa (tiger nuts) you might like to have a go at making your own horchata. The recipe is super easy and very similar to making other nut milks.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water (500ml) plus more for soaking

• 9 oz tiger nuts or chufas (250 g)

• Sweetener of choice (medjool dates, maple syrup, agave, etc)

• Optional: 1 cinnamon stick, peel of one lemon

Method

1. Soak the tiger nuts in additional water for at least 12 hours (24 hours is best).

2. Drain and rinse the tiger nuts.

3. Blend them with the 2 cups of water (500 ml). Place the mixture in a glass jar and let it stand in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This is where you can add a cinnamon stick and the peel of a lemon if thats your thing.

4. Strain the horchata using a nut milk bag, a cheesecloth or a napkin and then blend it with the dates or sweetener of choice. Let stand in the fridge again until it’s cold.

5. Now you are ready to serve your horchata! Add ice or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon to make it totally drool-worthy.

What do you think of horchata?