Almond Horchata - By Debashis Ganguly

Horchata, a beloved beverage of Valencia, Spain, is crafted primarily from chufas, also known as earth almonds or tiger nuts in English. These small knots protrude from the roots of the juncia avellanada plant, resembling hazelnuts in appearance. It's the unique flavor of these nuts that gives Horchata its distinct taste.

According to the Real Academia Española, Horchata is defined as a beverage made from earth almonds or other crushed and squeezed fruits, mixed with sugar and water.

While there are theories that earth almonds originated from East Africa or Southeast Asia, there's no concrete evidence. However, it's widely believed by historians. Archaeological studies suggest that chufas were cultivated in Neolithic Egypt, where they were consumed raw or dried and rehydrated.

The first documented references to earth almond Horchata date back to the 18th century. However, a similar beverage was enjoyed in ancient Egypt, made with barley instead of earth almonds.

Legends surrounding the beverage's name abound. One story tells of an Aragonese king during the period of the reconquest who, upon tasting Horchata, declared it as "gold" due to its exquisite flavor.

The first recipe for Horchata appeared in 1786 in a book titled "Alcaldes de Casas y Cortes" (home and court governors).

While sugar is a key ingredient in traditional Spanish Horchata, recent years have seen sugar-free versions emerge as health consciousness rises. However, for an authentic experience, it's recommended to stick to the original recipe and enjoy Horchata as an occasional treat.

Variants of Horchata exist worldwide. In Italy and Malta, Orzata is made with the essence of bitter almonds, while France has its version called Orgeat. In former Spanish colonies like Mexico, rice-based Horchata is popular, while Cuba and Puerto Rico opt for sesame seeds.

Typically enjoyed during the hot Spanish summers as a refreshing cold beverage, Horchata holds a special place in the hearts of many, offering a delightful taste of tradition and history. Today I am going to share the recipe of one such Horchata: Almond Horchata.

Ingredients:

- 60 ml Baileys Almande or Baileys Vanilla Cinnamon

- ¾ cup Almond Milk

- 30 ml Honey

- Pinch of Nutmeg

- 20 ml Espresso

Method:

1. Heat the almond milk and pour it into a serving glass.

2. Add the Baileys Almande (or Baileys Vanilla Cinnamon), honey, pinch of nutmeg, and espresso into the glass.

3. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Optionally, pour some whipped cream on top and garnish with marshmallows or roasted sliced almonds.

5. Serve warm in a Hurricane glass.

Enjoy your delicious Almond Horchata Cocktail, perfect for sipping during the monsoon season or any time you're in the mood for a