Horchata de Coco {Coconut Horchata}

I really wish I had taken time out from enjoying my tamales on El Dia de la Candelaria (Candlemas) and paid a little more attention to whether or not Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog's Day.  I don't think I can take much more of this cold, gray and rainy winter weather we've been having these past two weeks.  I know two weeks of 40 degree temperatures and scattered rain showers isn't really cause for complaint, but this unseasonable weather really has this California girl craving for a little sunshine.

Since I can't control the weather and make the sunshine come to me, I had to make something that would remind me of warm, sunny weather.  Enter Horchata de Coco!  Whenever I drink this creamy, coconut agua fresca, I feel like I should be relaxing on a tropical beach somewhere, soaking in the sun, listening to the waves crash upon the sand.  Throw in a couple of palm trees and a good book and all that's missing is a cute little umbrella in my drink to complete my summer fantasy.   (Sigh!) 





Horchata de Coco

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick 
• 1-1/2 cups coconut milk or water 
• 6 cups water
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions:

Puree the sweetened coconut and cinnamon stick with the coconut milk or water in a blender until smooth. Strain into a 2-quart pitcher. Stir the water; sweeten with granulated sugar to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Pour agua fresca into glasses filled with ice. Enjoy!!!  

*Tip: For a grown-up version, pour a shot (or two) of rum into each glass before serving. 

How's winter treating you?  Are you ready for warmer weather?