Unbearably Simple Rice

This rice is perfect for prety much anything that needs rice. Fried rice, side dishes, rice pudding, etc.

1c Long Grain rice (don't rinse!)
1 Tbs Butter
2c water
3 saffron threads (optional, gives a nice golden color and a great scent but it's not a necessity)

Put all the ingredients in a covered pot on high until just boiling. Stir a few times and then turn down to medium low and let cook at a simmer for 15-20 minutes depending on altitude (I live in Denver so it takes 20-25 really). Don't take the lid off unless you are really worried about it. The more the lid stays on the faster it will cook and the better off your rice will be. When the time is up just turn off the burner, by this . If you need the burner back just take the pot off and set it aside. Wait another 10 minutes and up to 45 minutes and then open and fluff the rice and serve.

If you want something slightly fancier soften half an onion chopped small in the butter before adding the rice and water to the pan. You can also stir between 1/2 and 1 cup of frozen vegetables (like the peas and carrots mix available practically everywhere)