Strawberry Horchata

It’s the start of summer and strawberry season and what better way to celebrate than with a tall glass of Strawberry Horchata?! This is so easy and quick to make — guaranteed to be adored by children and adults. It can also be made vegan. Start your summer right with this refreshing and indulgent drink!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb strawberries (optional: more for garnish) 

• 1 cup long-grain rice

• 3 cinnamon sticks

• 2 cups of your choice of milk

• 2 tsp vanilla

• 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed or evaporated milk

  • Fact: condensed milk is evaporated milk except with sugar added. I like condensed but if you prefer less sweet, try evaporated!

  • Vegan Option: in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk 2 cups of dairy-free milk with 1 cup sugar until sugar is dissolved

Instructions:

• In a bowl: stir cinnamon sticks, rice, and 2 cups of hot water. Set aside

• Rinse and slice your strawberries, be sure to remove the stems

• In a blender: puree strawberries with 1 cup of water. Transfer to a bowl and set aside

• In the same blender: blend rice, cinnamon sticks, and hot water mixture

• Strain liquid in a jar or dispenser, discard chunks

• To the liquid: add milk, vanilla, and strawberries puree. Stir well

• Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. You really want to enjoy this beverage cold, so avoid adding ice until you’re ready to serve

• Optional: add additional strawberry pieces for garnish

• Tip: If you want a thicker consistency, use more condensed milk. If you prefer less viscosity, increase your ratio of regular milk or dilute with water, 1/2 cup at a time (so you don’t sacrifice too much flavor by accident)