Horchata

Horchata is a popular beverage found in Spanish and Latin American cuisine. In Spain, it was made with tiger nuts (also called chufa nuts) and ground melon seeds. Since neither were available, in Latin American countries it was made from new items. It is usually made from a combination of rice or rice milk, almonds or almond milk and cinnamon, although variations abound.

Fast Facts

1. Also called: Orxata
2. Spain: Made with tiger nuts
3. Most of Latin America: Made with rice and/or almonds
4. Often flavored with cinnamon

Regional Variations

In El Salvador, horchata has cantaloupe seeds. Horchata in Ecuador is made from a blend of herbs, and has sesame seeds instead of almonds. In Panama, sesame seeds are also substituted for almonds. In Nicaragua, cacao is frequently added.

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