Fruit-Spiced Rice - serves 4

2 tablespoos whipped butter
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 ounces uncooked regular long grain rice
3 large dried figs, diced
6 dried apricot halves, diced
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon each ground cardamom and grated lemon peel

In 1-quart saucepan combine 1 1/2 cups water, the butter, and salt and cook over high heat until mixture comes to a boil.
Add rice and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover and let simmer until rice is tender and liquid is almost absorbed, about 15 minutes.
Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Cover and cook until liquid is fully absorbed and frits are plumped, 2 to 3 minutes.