What Is Horchata, Exactly?

Horchata de Chufa is a traditional drink from Valencia, Spain, made from small tubers called tiger nuts. Despite the name, they're not nuts at all! They're small, sweet earth tubers that grow underground, making them suitable even for those with nut sensitivities.

Humans have been eating tiger nuts for thousands of years. They've even been found in ancient Egyptian tombs. Ancient wisdom coming back to us at exactly the right time.

The Health Benefits

Resistant starch and prebiotics — Nourishes the good gut bacteria and supports healthy digestion and a calm belly

Rich in dietary fibre — Long-lasting satiety and balanced blood sugar levels

Vitamin E — A powerful antioxidant that supports glowing skin and female hormonal balance

Magnesium and potassium — Muscle relaxation, nervous system support and better sleep

Healthy fats — Oleic acid, the same beneficial fat found in olive oil

Gluten-free, lactose-free, nut-free — Suitable for almost everyone

How to Make Horchata Milk at Home

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried tiger nuts
  • 4 cups water
  • A pinch of sea salt

Method:

  1. Soak the tiger nuts in water for 24 to 48 hours (change the water once a day). Soaking softens them and awakens the life within them
  2. Drain and rinse
  3. Blend with 4 cups of clean water for 2 minutes
  4. Strain through cheesecloth or a nut milk bag, squeezing thoroughly
  5. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake before use

That's it. A naturally sweet, creamy, nourishing milk with no added sugar.

And Now the Magic: Golden Chai Horchata

Take the milk you've made and transform it into a warming winter drink that balances, soothes and ignites your inner fire.

Ingredients (for 2 cups):

  • 2 cups horchata milk
  • 3 pitted Medjool dates
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 2 whole cloves
  • Half a teaspoon of cinnamon
  • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

Method:

  1. Blend the horchata milk with the dates until smooth and creamy
  2. Add all the spices to a small pot with the mixture and stir well
  3. Heat on low for 8 to 10 minutes. Don't let it boil, to preserve the silky texture
  4. Strain into cups, breathe in the aroma deeply... and enjoy

Golden tip: The black pepper isn't there by accident. It activates the curcumin in turmeric and multiplies its absorption in the body many times over.

The ginger and cinnamon warm you, the cardamom opens the heart and breath, and the dates sweeten exactly as nature intended.

One drink that is medicine, indulgence and a moment of presence with yourself, all at once.