Horchata (Rice Drink)

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.

Pur e 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.