horchata

American  

[awr-chah-tuh] / ɔrˈtʃɑ tə /

noun

1. a chilled drink of Spain and Latin America, made from rice milk or any of various nut milks, sweetened and typically flavored with cinnamon or vanilla.

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Etymology

Origin of horchata

First recorded in 1820–30; from Spanish, ultimately from Latin hordeum “barley,” perhaps through an intermediary such as Italian, Medieval Latin, or Mozarabic; see orgeat ( def. )

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Explanation

Horchata is a refreshing drink popular across Spain and Latin America. It's made of nondairy milk created by soaking grains, nuts, or seeds — usually rice or almonds — to create a creamy, iced beverage. Horchata's roots trace back to 11th-century North Africa, where early versions were made from grains. The drink later spread to Spain, where it was traditionally made from tiger nuts — small edible tubers that resemble chickpeas. As the recipe traveled, it evolved: In Mexico, horchata is usually made with rice, while in Central America, it may be made with toasted morro or sesame seeds. Regardless of the base, the ingredients are soaked with cinnamon and sometimes vanilla, and then blended with water and sugar to create a silky, "milky" texture.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

horchata

So behold my 2026 forecast, which will absolutely come true, because my track record is more perfect than an order of taquitos at Cielito Lindo washed down with horchata.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 31, 2025

Back in Chicago, Miko's Italian ices are churned in an ice cream maker, which aerates mixtures like horchata, guava and the beloved mango, giving them a fluffier texture similar to DiCosmo's.

From Salon ● Jun. 28, 2023

There was so much to talk about during our one-hour dinner that Alarcon barely touched his chile verde or sipped on his medium-size horchata.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 4, 2023

I guzzle the bucket-sized horchata until I feel sick.

From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez

I’ll be able to buy three tacos and a large horchata, which isn't much, but it will do.

From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez

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