Step 1

In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Stir in rice and salt. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until water is mostly absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 2

Microwave milk until steaming, about 1 to 2 minutes. To the rice, stir in milk and granulated sugar and bring to a slow simmer. Cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally until mixture is thick, about 45 minutes. (A spoon should be able to stand up in the pudding)

Step 3

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow pudding to cool slightly before serving, or refrigerate until chilled to serve cold, about 2 hours. Garnish with a dusting of ground cinnamon.