🇪🇸 Spain · Drinks
Horchata de Chufa (Tiger Nut Milk)
By eatmundo · July 7, 2026
Horchata de Chufa is a traditional Valencian refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from ground tiger nuts, water, and sugar. With its milky white appearance and uniquely earthy, slightly nutty, and sweet flavor, it's a popular summer beverage, often served ice-cold with fartons (sweet pastries).
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Begin by thoroughly cleaning 250g of dried tiger nuts under cold running water to remove any dirt. Then, place them in a large bowl, cover generously with cold water, and let them soak for at least 12-24 hours. Change the water a few times during this period to ensure freshness and proper rehydration.
- 2
After soaking, drain the tiger nuts thoroughly and rinse them once more. This lengthy soaking is crucial for softening the nuts and making them easier to blend, ensuring a smooth horchata.
- 3
Transfer the soaked tiger nuts to a high-speed blender. Add 1 liter of fresh cold water to the blender. Blend on high speed for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture is as finely ground and smooth as possible. You want to extract maximum flavor and milky texture.
- 4
Place a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the blended tiger nut mixture into the sieve. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to extract all the liquid, leaving behind the pulp. This step requires a bit of muscle, but it's essential for a clear, smooth horchata.
- 5
Once you've extracted all the liquid, stir in 100g of sugar (or to taste) into the tiger nut milk. You can also add 0.5 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a small strip of lemon peel at this stage for added flavor, if desired. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- 6
Pour the horchata into a clean bottle or pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably longer, until it is thoroughly chilled. Horchata is always served ice-cold, which enhances its refreshing qualities.
- 7
Before serving, give the horchata a good stir or shake, as some sediment may settle at the bottom. Serve in tall glasses, optionally with a few ice cubes, and enjoy this unique Valencian specialty. ¡Que aproveche!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are tiger nuts (chufas)?+
Tiger nuts are not actually nuts, but small tubers (root vegetables) from the plant Cyperus esculentus. They have a slightly sweet, earthy, and nutty flavor, and are rich in fiber and beneficial fats, making horchata a nutritious drink.
Can I skip the soaking step for the tiger nuts?+
No, the soaking step is absolutely essential. It rehydrates and softens the dried tiger nuts, making them much easier to blend and allowing for a better extraction of their milky liquid and flavor. Without it, your horchata will be grainy and less flavorful.
How can I achieve the creamiest texture for my horchata?+
To get the creamiest horchata, ensure your tiger nuts are well-soaked and blend them for a sufficient amount of time (5-7 minutes) in a high-speed blender. Squeezing the pulp through cheesecloth thoroughly is also key to extracting all the goodness.
How long does homemade horchata last?+
Homemade horchata de chufa should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 2-3 days. Since it's a fresh, natural product without preservatives, it has a limited shelf life.
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