Orzata....Orgeat...Sweet Almond Syrup

I have rediscovered a favorite beverage from my youth it is called “Orzata”. Well actually the Orzata is almond syrup used as a flavoring for hot and cold beverages and many other recipes. My favorite way of drinking it is putting 1 ounce of Orzata in a tall glass with ice, then adding seltzer or club soda. I think one of the reasons that I love it so much is that it kind of tastes like an almond paste cookie without all the calories. The syrup has about 75 calories an ounce but it has such a strong flavor that an ounce would flavor about 16 ounces of seltzer without tasting diluted.
The rediscovery happened when I was out shopping with a friend a little before Christmas and we had gone into an Italian import store. While looking around I had spotted some bottles of the Orzata and got nostalgic and excited all at the same time. I explained to my friend what it was and how much I use to enjoy it and low and behold I received two bottles of it for Christmas.
I immediately stocked up on some plain seltzer and have been drinking heavily ever since.

Other Uses for Orzata:

Try Orzata in your coffee for something truly special….

Pour yourself a cup of good strong coffee
Add a 1/2 ounce of Orzata and just a splash of cream

Drizzle a little Orzata on pound cake, pancakes, French toast
A little splash in a fruit salad is wonderful.