Horchata

Ingredients

• White rice (1 cup)
• Water (4 cups, plus extra for soaking)
• Cinnamon sticks (2)
• Sugar (1/2 cup (adjust to taste))
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Milk (1 cup (optional, for creaminess))
• Ice cubes (as needed)
• Ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
2. In a blender, combine the rinsed rice, 4 cups of water, and cinnamon sticks. Blend on high until the rice is finely broken down and the mixture appears smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Transfer the blended mixture to a large bowl or pitcher and let it sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight for a stronger flavor.
4. After soaking, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pitcher, discarding the solids. You can use a spoon to press down on the solids to extract more liquid.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and sugar until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your preference.
6. If desired, add milk to the strained mixture for extra creaminess, and stir well.
7. Serve the horchata over ice cubes in tall glasses and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for garnish.
8. Enjoy the refreshing and creamy horchata as a delicious drink on its own or paired with traditional Mexican dishes like tacos or tamales!