Horchata (Rice Drink — Mexico)

1 cup uncooked white rice
2 sticks cinnamon
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1 quart water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Grind rice to a coarse meal in a blender. Mix together rice, cinnamon, almonds and water. Cover loosely and let stand overnight.

Purée the rice mixture, then strain through several layers of dampened cheesecloth. Mix in sugar and vanilla extract. Serve ice cold.

To serve, pour into tall, ice-filled glasses.