Step 1

Bring water and rice to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring, until most of the water is absorbed into the rice.

Step 2

Turn heat down to medium. Start adding milk to the rice, one cup at a time. After each cup is added, stir the rice and cook for 5 minutes or so, until most of the milk is absorbed into the rice. Continue with this process until all the milk is added. The rice is cooked low and slow - the whole process can take up to an hour. Once all the milk is added, stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.

Step 3

Serve rice warm with butter and cinnamon on top. The rice can also be served cold, with melted butter on top.