Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 4 cups (950ml) water, plus more for soaking
  • 1 cinnamon stick (approx. 3 inches/7.5 cm)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (60ml) evaporated milk (for extra creaminess)
  • Ice, for serving
  • Ground cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse rice well. Combine rice, water, and cinnamon stick in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  2. Drain the rice mixture, reserving the cinnamon stick. Place the rice, cinnamon stick, and fresh water into the blender. Blend on high speed until the rice is completely broken down and the mixture is smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Place the fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander over a large pitcher. Pour the rice mixture through the sieve, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
  4. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract (and evaporated milk, if using) until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill thoroughly. Serve over ice. Garnish with ground cinnamon, if desired. Give it a good stir before serving, as some sediment might settle.