Ingredients

3 to 4 servings

　　1 cup basmati or other long-grain rice

　　1 quart salted water

　　2 tablespoons butter

　　1 1/2 tablespoons milk or water

　　

Step 1

Wash well in a few changes of water: 1 cup basmati or other long-grain rice.

　　

Step 2

Cover with water by 1 inch, and soak for about 20 minutes. In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring to a boil: 1 quart salted water.

　　

Step 3

Drain the rice, add it to the boiling water, and cook for 6 to 7 minutes. Test for doneness. The grains should be slightly al dente, or hard in the center. Drain well and mound back into the pot. Heat until just melted: 2 tablespoons butter, 1 1/2 tablespoons milk or water.

　　

Step 4

Pour the butter mixture over the rice and cover the pot tightly with foil or a tight-fitting lid. Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes until dry and fluffy.

　　The Art of Simple Food