Crusty Persian Rice with Cinnamon and Pistach

Yield:	8 Servings
Categories:	Oriental, Rice

2 1/2	c	Basmati rice (18 ounces)
2	tb	Salt (plus 1/4 teaspoon)
1/8	ts	Saffron threads
1	sm	Orange
6	tb	Butter
1	ts	Sugar
1/4	ts	Cinnamon
1/2	c	Shelled unsalted pistachios (2 1/2 ounces)
1/2	c	Golden raisins
2	tb	Vegetable oil