Dishbook

Horchata is a creamy, cinnamon-infused beverage made by blending soaked rice with water and sweetened with sugar and vanilla. Strained to a silky texture and chilled until cold, it offers a refreshing, subtly spiced flavor. Perfect for hot days or to accompany spicy dishes, this make-ahead drink is both easy and crowd-pleasing.

Steps

1. Rinse rice until water runs clear, then combine with water and cinnamon stick in a bowl; soak 4 hours or overnight.
2. Transfer rice mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
3. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher, discarding solids.
4. Stir in milk, sugar, and vanilla until sugar dissolves.
5. Refrigerate until cold, about 240 minutes.
6. Serve over ice and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.