Horchata

Directions

1. 1
   Place the rice in a blender or spice grinder and process until thoroughly pulverized.
2. 2
   Take your time doing this - this is a critical step and the more finely ground the rice, the better the horchata will be.
3. 3
   Transfer to a large bowl or pitcher and add the almonds, cinnamon, and lime zest.
4. 4
   Add about 3 cups of hot water, cover, and let stand overnight.
5. 5
   The next day, transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until mixture is as smooth as it will get, again taking your time to allow to get as smooth as possible.
6. 6
   Add 2 cups additional cool water and blend again until thoroughly combined.
7. 7
   Pour mixture through a strainer lined with 3 layers of fine cheesecloth set over a bowl, little by little, pressing on solids and stirring to help mixture pass through the cloth.
8. 8
   The more slowly you strain the mixture, the smoother the horchata will be.
9. 9
   Transfer to a pitcher and add 2 cups more water, until the mixture is a pleasant, smooth consistency.
10. 10
    Add sugar and vanilla extract, to taste.
11. 11
    Cover and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
12. 12
    Serve cold over ice.