Ingredients
Gathering ingredients for these drinks is like assembling a palette of colors, each one contributing to the final masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 cup chilled sparkling water
- 1/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ground tiger nuts (for Horchata de Chufa)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves and orange slices for garnish
If you can’t find tiger nuts for the Horchata, almonds make a lovely substitute, bringing a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of creating these refreshing drinks. Remember, every step is a brushstroke on the canvas of your culinary creation.
- Start with preparing the Horchata de Chufa. Soak the ground tiger nuts in water for at least four hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Once soaked, drain the tiger nuts and blend them with 2 cups of cold water, vanilla extract, and the cinnamon stick until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth, squeezing out as much liquid as possible. Sweeten with sugar to taste and chill in the refrigerator.
- For the Agua de Valencia, mix freshly squeezed orange juice with chilled sparkling water in a large pitcher.
- Add sugar, stirring until completely dissolved. Adjust sweetness according to your preference.
- Serve both drinks over ice in tall glasses, garnished with mint leaves and orange slices for an extra touch of freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International