Die Dreaming (Dominican Morir Soñando)

This Dominican Republic drink is called Morir Soñando there and translated means “die dreaming”. The refreshing drink is simple to make and is reminiscent of a creamsicle popsicle. Just milk, cane sugar, orange juice and ice. The milk can curdle if it is not extremely cold. It can also be made with evaporated milk for a bit creamier texture. No one can say with certainty where morir soñando originated. What is certain is that this drink has emerged recently. In New York, some establishments have made it their signature drink and boast that they serve the best morir soñando in the city.

3½ cups evaporated milk, very cold
¾ cup cane sugar
3 cups orange juice, freshly squeezed (about 5 lb oranges)
few drops pure vanilla extract
crushed ice

Refrigerate the oranges for 2 hours before squeezing.

Mix the evaporated milk, vanilla extract (optional) and cane sugar. Add the crushed ice and stir.

Slowly pour the orange juice into the milk without stirring.

Serve immediately.

Makes 6 servings.