Ingredients

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads or ground turmeric
6 cups boiling water
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
2 medium onions, chopped
2 (1 inch) pieces cinnamon stick
4 whole cloves
1 teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 cardamom seeds
4 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
1 cup plain yogurt
2 teaspoons salt

Directions

Place saffron threads into boiling water, set aside to steep.

Melt the vegetable shortening in a large pot over medium-high heat. Stir in the onions, and cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Season with cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, cumin, garlic powder, and cardamom seeds. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes to release the flavor, stirring constantly.

Pour in the rice and cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the yogurt, saffron water, and salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover pot with a cloth folded into 4 layers. Place a lid over the cloth and cook until the rice is done, about 20 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom seeds before serving.