1
Adjust oven rack to middle position; heat oven to 375°. Spread rice in 8 inch-square glass baking dish (I use a 2-qt glass casserole dish, because it’s got a lid, which is convenient for the next step).
Bring water and butter, covered, in medium saucepan over high heat; once boiling immediately stir in salt and herbs and pour over rice. Cover baking dish tightly with doubled layer of foil. Bake rice 1 hour, until tender.
Remove baking dish from oven and uncover. Fluff rice with a fork, then cover with a clean dish towel; let stand 5 minutes. Uncover and let stand 5 minutes longer; serve. This can be made earlier in the day and then reheated before serving.
Serves 4-6.