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–+ servings

Pistachio Horchata

Author: Madly Delicious
A creamy, nutty twist on classic horchata, this Pistachio Horchata blends soaked rice and pistachios with cinnamon, vanilla, and just the right touch of sweetness. Smooth, creamy, and delicious - perfect served over ice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Soaking Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Course Beverages
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired
Servings 5 (~ 1 cup portions)

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • ⅔ cup shelled raw pistachios
  • 4 cups filtered water (for soaking)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (or ½ tsp ground cinnamon)
  • 2 cups additional filtered water
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Salt, to taste (start with a pinch or two)

To Top

  • Sprinkle with cinnamon
  • Grate a pistachio on top

Instructions
 

  • Soak the Rice & Pistachios: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup long-grain white rice, ⅔ cup pistachios, 4 cups filtered water, and the cinnamon stick. Cover and soak for at least 6 hours, but overnight is preferred for the best flavor and texture.
  • Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the soaked mixture (including the soaking liquid and cinnamon stick) to a blender. Add 2 cups additional filtered water and blend on high for about 3 minutes, until fully broken down and milky.
  • Strain the Horchata: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag into a large bowl or pitcher, pressing or squeezing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
  • Sweeten & Finish: Whisk in ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch or two of salt. Mix until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness or salt as desired.
  • Chill & Serve: Refrigerate until cold, then serve over ice. Stir before serving as natural separation may occur. Top with a dash of cinnamon or grated pistachio.

Notes

Texture
It is normal for the horchata to have a slightly grainy texture from the rice and pistachios—strain twice for an extra smooth finish if desired.
Soaking Time
Soaking overnight is recommended for the best flavor and a creamier, more blended result.
Sweetness Level
Start with ⅓ cup sugar and adjust to taste depending on how sweet you like your horchata.
Salt Balance
A small pinch of salt enhances the nutty pistachio flavor—adjust carefully, especially if using salted pistachios.
Separation
Natural separation will occur in the fridge—simply stir or shake well before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving
Keyword dairy-free beverage, easy horchata recipe, homemade horchata recipe, horchata, pistachio horchata, pistachio horchata recipe, vegan horchata recipe
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