Authentic Horchata

1 . Stage

Grind rice into very fine, cornmeal-sized pieces using a blender or coffee grinder.

2 . Stage

Transfer ground rice to a medium bowl, pour warm water on top, and drop in cinnamon sticks. Cover and refrigerate, 8 hours to overnight.

3 . Stage

Remove the cinnamon sticks. Place mixture back in the blender and puree until as smooth as possible.

4 . Stage

Line a sieve with a couple layers of cheesecloth and strain the mixture. Squeeze cloths to extract as much flavor as possible.

5 . Stage

Stir in milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until sugar has dissolved. Chill completely, at least 2 hours.

6 . Stage

Serve over ice, garnished with cinnamon.