Step #1 If you are using Iranian rice, start at least 6 hrs ahead.
Step #2 Spread it on a clean surface & pick out & discard any dark or discolored grains.
Step #3 Then wash it in a fine sieve or colander set under warm running water until the draining water runs clear.
Step #4 Finally place the rice in a large bowl or pot, add 1/4 c of salt & enough cold water to cover it by about 1 inch & soak overnight, or for at least 6 hrs.
Step #5 If you are using other long-grain rice, wash it in the same way, but soak it in the salt water for about 2 hrs.
Step #6 In a heavy 3 to 4 quart saucepan equipped with a tightly fitting lid, bring 6 c of fresh water to a boil over high heat.
Step #7 Drain the rice thoroughly & pour it into the boiling water.
Step #8 in a slow, thin stream so the water does not stop boiling.
Step #9 Stir once or twice, then boil briskly, uncovered for 5 mins.
Step #10 Drain in a sieve.
Step #11 Pour 1 c fresh water & the melted butter in the saucepan & pour in the parboiled rice, mounding it slightly in the middle of the pan.
Step #12 Cover the pan tightly with a strip of aluminum foil & set the lid in place.
Step #13 Simmer the rice over moderate heat to 15 to 20 mins, or until the grains are tender & have absorbed all the liquid in the pan.
Step #14 Serve at once.
Step #15 Traditionally, when served with skewered broiled meat or chicken, the rice is served mounded into individual portions with a well in the center of each.
Step #16 A pat of butter is placed on top, & the top is Sprinkle topd with salt, a raw egg yolk is dropped in, a grindings of pepper & if desired a little dried sumak.
Step #17 --.
Enjoy the CHELO SEEBZAMINI (STEAMED RICE WITH SAFFRON P recipe