On Mallorca, the locals welcome the summer with a refreshing drink that is so typical that no visit to the island would be complete without it: the "Granizado de Almendras". This popular iced drink is made from Mallorcan almonds and is a delicious way to cool down on hot days. Similar to the horchata popular in mainland Spain, which is traditionally made from tiger nuts, the Mallorcan version offers a unique local twist by using real almonds. It is often perfectly paired with a slice of gató, a local almond cake, which complements the flavor of the granita wonderfully. Visit local cafés or ice cream parlors in Mallorca to experience this tasty drink for yourself. Or prepare it at home and bring a slice of Mallorcan summer into your kitchen.
A taste of Mallorca
The traditional production of the "Granizado de Almendras" underlines the cultural importance of almonds in Mallorca. This drink is not only a favorite for its taste, but also for its refreshing properties.
The "Granizado de Almendras" offers a refreshing change for anyone who wants to enjoy the flair of Mallorca. This traditional iced drink, which is reminiscent of a slushie in its texture, is mainly made from Mallorcan almonds and is similar to the Valencian horchata. While horchata is made from tiger nuts and is served in liquid form, granizado has a semi-frozen consistency.
You can discover this local speciality in many cafés and ice cream parlours on the island, often served in "horchaterías", which specialize in this and similar drinks. Even though the traditional horchata on the mainland is made from tiger nuts, many cafés on Mallorca also use the famous local almonds, which gives both types of drink an unmistakably delicious taste.
Homemade granizado de almendras
The recipe for Granizado de Almendras is simple and a great way to experience the culinary diversity of Mallorca at home. All you need to make it is a few ingredients and a little patience, as the drink is best prepared overnight in the freezer.
Ingredients: Granizado de Almendras
- 260 g raw almonds, unpeeled
- 60 g roasted almonds
- 600 ml water
- 150 g brown sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
- Bring water to the boil in a pan and add raw almonds, sugar and cinnamon.
- After a minute, remove from the heat and leave to cool.
- Place the cooled mixture with the roasted almonds and ice cubes in a blender and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a container and place in the freezer. Stir after 30 minutes and repeat the process after another 30 minutes.
Preparing Granizado de Almendras is a simple process, but it does require a little planning. The end result is a deliciously refreshing drink that goes particularly well with traditional Mallorcan almond cake.
What about the roasted almonds? They are gone during the preparation :-))
Hello Klaus!
Thank you for your inquiry!
Take another look at point 3 in the preparation instructions!
Best regards
the isla editorial team