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Horchata (orxata)


Orxata (also spelled horchata) is a popular drink that originated in Valencia, Spain. It is made by soaking ground tiger nuts (a type of tuber) in water, sweetening the mixture with sugar, and adding cinnamon and/or lemon zest for flavor. The resulting drink is milky-white in color and has a slightly sweet, nutty taste with a hint of spice. Orxata is sometimes also available without sugar, so make sure to ask. The nutritional value of horchata can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used. However, in general, traditional horchata made with tiger nuts is a fairly healthy drink with several nutritional benefits. Horchata is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Orxata is a popular drink in many Spanish-speaking countries, as well as in North Africa and parts of West Africa, where it is sometimes made with other ingredients such as rice or sesame seeds. In some regions of Mexico and Central America, orxata is made with rice and is known as "horchata de arroz". Orxata is typically served cold and is a refreshing beverage on hot days.

History

The history of horchata (or orxata, as it is known in Catalan) in Barcelona is closely tied to the city's cultural and culinary traditions.

Horchata arrived in Barcelona during the Middle Ages, when the city was a major center of trade and commerce in the Mediterranean region. The drink was brought to the city by Arab traders and was originally made with chufa, a type of tuber that was grown in the fertile plains of Valencia. 

Over time, horchata became a popular drink among the people of Barcelona, who began making their own versions using locally sourced ingredients. Today, the most common form of horchata in Barcelona is made with chufa, which is still grown in Valencia and is considered the best variety for making the drink.

In Barcelona, horchata is often served alongside traditional pastries such as "ensaimadas" and "coca de vidre". It is also a popular ingredient in some desserts and is sometimes used as a dairy-free alternative to milk or cream. It is often a seasonal beverage, traditionally served in spring and summer, so check before heading out to one of the locations below. 

Overall, horchata has become an integral part of Barcelona's culinary identity, and can be found in many cafes and restaurants throughout the city.

Where to Find

There are many places in Barcelona where you can try traditional horchata. Here are a few suggestions:

El Tío Che: This is one of the oldest and most famous horchaterías in Barcelona, located in the Gracia neighborhood. They have been making horchata since 1912, and their recipe has remained unchanged for over a century.


Sirvent: This family-owned business has been making horchata since 1920, and has several locations throughout the city. They also serve other traditional Catalan sweets and pastries.


Horchatería Daniel: This horchatería has been in operation since 1914 and is located in the Eixample neighborhood. They make their horchata using chufa grown in Valencia, and serve it with traditional "fartons" (long, thin sweet pastries).


Horchatería La Valenciana: This horchatería has been in operation since 1910 and is located in the Eixample neighborhood. They also make their horchata using chufa from Valencia on a daily basis.


Turronería La Campana: This horchatería is located in the El Born neighborhood and is known for its artisanal horchata, which is served only from March to November. They also offer traditional nougats, pastries, and chocolates. 

These are just a few of the many horchaterías and cafes in Barcelona where you can try traditional horchata. Be sure to also ask locals for their recommendations, as they may have their own favorite spots.

Photo by Engin Akyurt
Chufas image by Luis Fernando Talavera from Pixabay
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