horchata
Americannoun
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. )
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
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
Cleavers thumped in the background as I got up to put in my usual order: an al pastor burrito and an horchata.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 4, 2023
Not to worry, there are many beautiful spots all around the campus of the museum, with views and fountains, to enjoy your paper and horchata.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 31, 2023
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
I guzzle the bucket-sized horchata until I feel sick.
From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
