Sweet Almond Soup

½ cup unblanched almonds
3 tablespoons long grain rice
2 tablespoons Chinese dates
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2½ cups milk
2 tablespoons sugar

1. Process the almonds in a blender or food processor into a fine powder.
   Combine 3 tablespoons of the processed almonds with the white rice and
   process again. Add water, a few drops at a time, to form a paste.
2. Process the Chinese dates into small pieces and set aside.
3. Add oil to a preheated wok or heavy skillet. When oil is hot, add the milk
   and heat until it is almost, but not quite, boiling. Add the almond and rice
   paste and cook for 10 minutes at a near boil, stirring frequently.
4. Bring the milk to a boil. Add the sugar, stirring. Add the Chinese date
   pieces. Serve chilled.