| 1 | This is a master recipe that details certain steps applicable to all other rice recipes. |
| 2 | Clean by picking over the rice. |
| 3 | Basmatic rice like any other contains many small solid particles. |
| 4 | This grit must be removed by picking over the rice carefully by hand. |
| 5 | Wash the rice by placing it in a large container and covering it with lukewarm water. |
| 6 | Agitate briskly with your hand, then pour off the water. |
| 7 | Repeat five times until the rice is completely clean. |
| 8 | When washed rice is cooked it gives off a delightful pe Bring 6 cups of water with 2 teaspoons salt to a boil in a large non-stick pot. |
| 9 | Pour the washed and drained rice into the pot. |
| 10 | Boil briskly for 6 to 10 minutes; stir gently twice with a wooden spoon to loosen any grains that may have stuck to the botto In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons oil, two full spatulas of rice, 4 tablespoons yogurt, and i tablespoon saffron water; spread this mixture over the bottom of the pot and even out with back of a spatula. |
| 11 | This will help to make a golden crust (_tah di Take one spatula full of rice at a time and gently place it on top of the bottom layer, gradually shaping the rice into a pyramid. |
| 12 | This shape leaves room for the rice to expand. |
| 13 | Poke 1 or 2 holes in the rice pyramid with the handle of a wooden spoon. |
| 14 | Cover and cook rice for 10 minutes over medium heat in order to form a gold crust. |
| 15 | Dissolve 1 tablespoon oil in ?cup hot water and pour over the rice pyramid. |
| 16 | Place a clean dish towel or 2 layers of paper towel over the pot and cover firmly with the lid toprevent steam from escaping. |
| 17 | Cook for 50 minutes longer over low heat. |
| 18 | Remove the pot from heat. |
| 19 | Allow to cool on a damp surface for 5 minutes without uncovering it. |
| 20 | This helps to free the crust from the bottom of the pot. |
| 21 | Then put 2 tablespoons of rice in a dish, mix with remaining saffron water, and set aside for garnis Gently taking one spatula full of rice at a time, place it on a serving platter without disturbing the crust. |
| 22 | Mound the rice into a cone. |
| 23 | Sprinkle the saffron rice garnish overthe top. |
| 24 | For a tastier effect, you may melt 2 tablespoons butter and drizzle 10. |
| 25 | Detach the layer of crust from the bottom using a wooden spatula. |
| 26 | Place on a small platter and serve on the side or arrange it around the rice. |
