Cold Rice Drink (Fresco de Arroz)

Cold Rice Drink (Fresco de Arroz) Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cold Rice Drink, also known as Fresco de Arroz, is a refreshing and sweet beverage that originates from Latin America. This drink is perfect for hot summer days and is a great way to cool down while enjoying a delicious treat.

History

Fresco de Arroz has been a popular drink in Latin American countries for many years. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations, as well as a refreshing beverage to enjoy on a daily basis. The combination of rice, fruit juices, and spices creates a unique and flavorful drink that is loved by many.

Ingredients

0.5 cup uncooked rice
2 qt (1.89 liter) water
1.5 cup sugar
0.25 tsp salt
1 cup orange juice
1 cup pineapple juice (canned or fresh)
0.25 cup lemon juice
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
4 whole cloves
1 cup cubed pineapple (0.25 inch size), canned or fresh
3 tbsp grated orange peel

How to prepare

Combine 3 qt (2.84 liter) of rice and water in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then stir. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 35 minutes or until the rice is very soft.
Puree the mixture in an electric blender or food processor.
Combine sugar, salt, juices, and spices in a separate pot. Cook until it becomes syrupy, which should take about 10 minutes. Add the pureed rice, pineapple cubes, and peel to the pot. Bring it to a boil, then remove from heat and take out the cloves. Let it chill.
Sliced strawberries can be added just before serving.

Variations

Add different fruits such as mango or passion fruit for a tropical twist.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier texture.
Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice until it is very soft to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the drink.

- Pureeing the rice mixture in a blender or food processor will help to create a smooth consistency.

- Adding the spices and juices to create a syrupy mixture will enhance the flavor of the drink.

- Chilling the drink before serving will help to enhance the flavors and make it even more refreshing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cold Rice Drink in tall glasses over ice for a refreshing and cooling beverage. Garnish with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the rice until very soft

- Pureeing the rice mixture

- Creating a syrupy mixture with juices and spices

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor.

- Substitute honey or agave nectar for sugar for a healthier alternative.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Cold Rice Drink can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply stir before serving and add any additional garnishes.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cold Rice Drink in decorative glasses with a slice of fruit on the rim for a beautiful presentation. Add a colorful straw for a fun and festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cold Rice Drink pairs well with spicy dishes such as Mexican or Indian cuisine. It also complements grilled meats and seafood dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cold Rice Drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir before serving and enjoy chilled. Do not freeze as the texture may change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 0.5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Fresco de Arroz is a low-fat and low-protein beverage that is high in carbohydrates and vitamin C. It is a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed as a sweet treat.

Summary

Cold Rice Drink is a delicious and refreshing beverage that is perfect for hot summer days. With a combination of rice, fruit juices, and spices, this drink is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this sweet treat and stay cool all summer long!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cold Rice Drink, or Fresco de Arroz as we call it in my hometown. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Lucia, who lived in the countryside. Lucia was known for her delicious homemade meals, and I always looked forward to trying new dishes whenever I visited her.

On that particular day, as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on some freshly brewed coffee, Lucia suddenly got up and disappeared into the pantry. She returned with a tattered old recipe book that looked like it had seen better days. She flipped through the pages, her eyes sparkling with excitement, until she finally landed on the recipe for Cold Rice Drink.

"This is a traditional recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations," Lucia explained, her voice filled with pride. "It's a refreshing and nutritious drink that is perfect for hot summer days."

As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe. All it required was cooked rice, water, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. It seemed so easy to make, yet I had never heard of such a drink before.

Lucia must have noticed my interest because she immediately offered to show me how to make it. I eagerly accepted her invitation and followed her every step as she guided me through the process. We boiled the rice in water until it was soft and tender, then we blended it with sugar and a hint of cinnamon until it was smooth and creamy.

Once the drink was ready, Lucia poured it into tall glasses and handed me one to try. I took a sip, and I was instantly transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The drink was cool and refreshing, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of spice from the cinnamon. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted, and I immediately fell in love with it.

From that moment on, I knew that I had to learn how to make Cold Rice Drink myself. I asked Lucia for a copy of the recipe, and she gladly handed it to me, along with some tips and tricks to ensure that it turned out perfect every time.

Back at home, I set out to recreate the drink in my own kitchen. I followed the recipe to a tee, carefully measuring each ingredient and following each step with precision. As the drink came together, I could almost hear Lucia's voice guiding me through the process, encouraging me to trust my instincts and embrace the art of cooking.

When the drink was finally ready, I poured myself a glass and took a sip. It tasted just like Lucia's version, with the same creamy texture and delicate balance of flavors. I couldn't believe that I had managed to recreate such a delicious drink in my own kitchen, thanks to Lucia's guidance and the treasured recipe she had shared with me.

Since that day, Cold Rice Drink has become a staple in my household, especially during the hot summer months when a cool and refreshing drink is exactly what we need. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, all of whom have fallen in love with the unique flavor and simplicity of the drink.

As I look back on that day with Lucia, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of her friendship and the joy of discovering a new recipe that has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. I will always remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw the recipe for Cold Rice Drink, and how it opened my eyes to a world of flavors and possibilities that I had never imagined before.