Orange Atole

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup masa harina para tortillas
• 3 cups water, plus more as needed, divided
• 1 cup milk
• 3 strips orange zest from 1 large orange
• 2 star anise pods, optional
• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• Kosher salt
• Finely grated orange zest, for garnish

Directions

1. Add the masa to a large saucepan and place it over medium heat. Right away, pour in the water in a very thin stream, whisking the whole time so the mixture stays smooth instead of clumpy.
2. Once it reaches a simmer, whisk in the milk, strips of orange zest, star anise if you’re using it, brown sugar, and a generous pinch of salt. Bring it back to a simmer, then turn the heat down to low.
3. Cook at a gentle simmer, whisking continuously, until the orange scent has worked its way through the drink, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove and discard the orange zest strips and star anise pods. Add more water as needed to make a hot drink that is thick but still easy to sip, warming it again if necessary.
5. Taste and adjust with extra sugar or salt if you’d like. Use a whisk or immersion blender to make it frothy, then ladle it into mugs, finish with grated orange zest, and serve.