Every once in a while, you come across a recipe that "just works".
For me, its the original BE Pilau. (not the revised).
1C rice in 2T ghee with whole spices - bay, cinnamon stick, cloves, green cards, plus I like to add fennel and black cumin.
Stir until just brown, then add 0.5 t turmeric and 0.5t salt, I personally add 0.5C rosewater and 1.5C water. Into the oven at 350 degrees F for 25 minutes. At the end I colour with streaks or not.
Great result.
-- Josh