The King’s Secret Horchata
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A Wedding-Scale Celebration Drink
Every feast needs a drink worthy of the table.
Alongside his wedding chili, the King of Texas is known to quietly share a horchata recipe intended not for a single glass, but for a full celebration. Cool, lightly sweet, and spiced just enough to feel festive, this horchata was designed to balance rich food, warm weather, and long conversations.
Like the chili, it is not an everyday drink. It is meant for gatherings, toasts, and shared moments.
Flavor Profile
This horchata leans smooth and refreshing rather than heavy:
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Creamy rice base with gentle cinnamon warmth
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Soft vanilla notes that round out the sweetness
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Light, clean finish suitable for sipping over time
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Designed to remain pleasant even in large quantities
It pairs especially well with spiced or savory dishes and works across a wide range of palates.
The King’s Wedding Horchata (Large Batch)
Yield: Approximately 3–4 gallons
(Enough for a medium to large wedding gathering)
Ingredients
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4 cups long-grain white rice
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2 cinnamon sticks
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2 gallons water (for soaking)
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1½ gallons cold water (for blending/serving)
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2½ cups sugar (adjust to taste)
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3 tablespoons vanilla extract
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2 cups whole milk (or preferred milk alternative)
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Optional: ground cinnamon for garnish
Method
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Rinse the rice until water runs mostly clear.
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Combine rice, cinnamon sticks, and 2 gallons of water. Soak overnight (at least 8 hours).
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Blend the soaked rice and cinnamon in batches until smooth.
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Strain thoroughly through fine mesh or cloth.
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Add remaining water, sugar, vanilla, and milk. Stir well.
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Chill fully before serving. Serve over ice if desired.
This horchata improves after resting several hours and should be kept cold during service.
Optional Adult Variation
For receptions or private celebrations where alcohol is appropriate, the King permits a separate adult station using the same base horchata.
Recommended additions (added after mixing the main batch):
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Dark rum
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Aged tequila
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Spiced rum
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Cinnamon-forward liqueurs
Suggested ratio:
Add alcohol to individual servings or a clearly marked secondary container. This preserves inclusivity for all guests and avoids confusion.
From the King’s Table
Legend says the King learned this horchata from the same rural artisan who shared the chili recipe. Where the chili was meant to feed the body, the horchata was meant to cool the room, slow the pace, and keep people talking long after the plates were cleared.
As with all things from the King’s table, this recipe is shared freely. It carries no ritual, no requirement, and no authority beyond hospitality.
A Gentle Reminder
This recipe is provided for personal and celebratory use. Alcohol is optional and should always be served responsibly and in accordance with local laws and venue policies.