Pour the rice into the bottom of the pot and add enough cold water so that it is covered by a depth of one knuckle. About one inch. Add salt and optional butter.
Put the pot over medium low heat and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and allow to cook for about 15 - 18 minutes. You'll know you're done when holes appears between the grains of rice, but water is not bubbling in them.
Turn off the heat, cover with a tight fitting lid and allow to steam for 5 minutes. Remove the lid, fluff with a fork, add any additional seasoning and serve.