About Horchata 

Horchata is a traditional Guatemalan drink that is refreshing and delicious, made from rice, evaporated milk, cinnamon and water. Horchata is a common drink throughout Central America and Mexico, and it is commonly drank on hot days with a lot of ice.

(Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Vegan Option Available)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups of white long grain rice 
• Sugar to taste 
• 1 can of evaporated milk (use non-dairy evaporated milk for vegan option)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1.5 tbsp of powder cinnamon 
• 2 - 2.5 litres of water (to taste) 

Preparation

Step 1
Pan fry rice and cinnamon sticks on medium/low heat until they're lightly golden. Be sure to not burn them.

Step 2
Transfer the rice and cinnamon sticks to rest in a bowl of water for 30 minutes to an hour, or until sufficiently soft.

Step 3
Once soft, add the mix to a blender and blend until liquid form.

Step 4
Using a strainer, pour the liquid into a pitcher and add 4-5 more cups of cold water. 

Step 5
Add condensed milk and sugar to taste and mix well with kitchen mixing spoon. 

Step 6
Pour into glass with ice cubes and enjoy! 

Be sure to post your cooking results on social media using the hashtag #SurreyFusion and tag @surreybcevents.

About Guatemala

Guatemala, a Central American country south of Mexico, is home to volcanoes, rainforests and ancient Mayan sites. The capital, Guatemala City, features the stately National Palace of Culture and the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. Antigua, west of the capital, contains preserved Spanish colonial buildings. Lake Atitlán, formed in a massive volcanic crater, is surrounded by coffee fields and villages.

Culture

While Spanish became the official language mandated in schools, various Mayan languages never died out, and are still widely-spoken throughout the highlands today. The music of Guatemala comprises several styles and expressions. The Maya had an intense musical practice. Guatemala was also one of the first regions in the New World to be introduced to European music, beginning in 1524. Many composers from the Renaissance, baroque, classical, romantic, and contemporary music styles have contributed works of all genres, of very high quality. 

Food

Although Guatemala does not have one national dish, many foods have emerged as diet staples for everyday use. As it was during Mayan times, corn continues to be a staple. Most often it is made into tortillas, served warm and wrapped in cloth. Another Mayan food, black beans, are also widely consumed, often at every meal. They are prepared in a variety of ways, from refried to mashed to simply eaten whole.