agua fresca (strawberry)
creamy. blushed. a little extra (in the best way).
Mar 6, 2024
Classic horchata is comforting and nostalgic.
Strawberry horchata? She’s glowing.
This version keeps everything we love — cinnamon, creamy milk, that silky rice base — and adds fresh strawberries for a soft pink twist that feels both playful and elevated.
It’s the kind of drink that looks impressive in a glass but is secretly very simple. Alhamdulillah for recipes that feel beautiful without trying too hard.
Ingredients
1 cup white rice (rinsed well)
1 cinnamon stick
4 cups water (for soaking)
1½ cups whole milk
1½ cups fresh strawberries (hulled)
½–¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla
Pinch of sea salt
Ice, for serving
Optional:
Sliced strawberries for garnish
Light dusting of cinnamon
lets make it!
Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs mostly clear.
Soak the rice and cinnamon stick in 4 cups of water overnight (or at least 6–8 hours).
Blend the soaked rice, cinnamon, and soaking water until completely smooth.
Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a silky finish.
In the blender, blend the strawberries until smooth. Strain if you prefer no pulp.
In a large pitcher, combine the rice milk mixture, blended strawberries, whole milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
Stir well and chill for at least 1–2 hours.
Serve over ice and admire the color. It deserves appreciation.
Notes from My Kitchen
The sweetness depends on how ripe your strawberries are — taste and adjust.
For a smoother texture, strain both the rice and strawberry mixture.
If it thickens in the fridge, add a splash of milk and stir.
Why This Version Works:
The rice gives body.
The milk gives creaminess.
The strawberries bring brightness and softness.
It’s comforting but playful. Familiar but fresh. The kind of drink that feels right at home at a gathering — or poured into your prettiest glass just because.
