Philadelphia Rice Pudding

1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed and drained well
6 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar, plus
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

Mix all of the ingredients together and place in a 3-quart covered saucepan. Bring to a simmer on the top of the stove and then place, covered, in the preheated oven.

Bake without disturbing or stirring for 2 hours and 45 minutes. The pudding will almost caramelize and become a pale golden color.