Add 1 cup of rice and 4 cups of water to a pot. Cook the rice over medium heat, stirring well so it doesn't stick.

Once the rice is cooked and soft, add 3 cups of milk, the salt, and the sugar. Stir, then add the vanilla. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, but don't let it get too thick. If it becomes too thick, add a little less than 1/2 cup of milk and stir until it comes to a boil.

When the mixture is warm, use a ladle to divide it into small bowls or ramekins. Let them cool. Once cooled, sprinkle with cinnamon if you like, and refrigerate or leave at room temperature.

Your rice pudding is ready. Enjoy!