Horchata

Ingredients

1 1/3 c. uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cinnamon sticks

4 c. water, divided

1 1/2 c. whole milk

2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Pinch of cloves

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 c. sugar, to taste

Directions

To a blender, add rice, cinnamon sticks and 2 cups water. Blend for 2 minutes until rice and cinnamon sticks are roughly ground. Add remaining 2 cups water and blend some more. Pour contents into a pitcher, cover, and let it sit overnight or at least 8 hours. Strain mixture and discard solids. Stir in milk, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, cloves and sugar. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Stir well and serve over ice. If desired, add a little bourbon or rum.