Wash the rice thorougly in several changes of water and put in a bowl. Add enough water to cover the rice by at least 1-inch. Soak rice for 1/2 to 4 hrs. Drain the rice. Discard the soaking water.

In a deep pot, bring a large quantity of water - as for cooking pasta- to a boil over high heat. Add the drained rice, stir briefly to prevent the rice from settling. When the water returns to a boil, set the timer and cook the rice exactly 4 mins. Drain rice in a large sieve over the sink. Transfer the rice to a heated platter and serve immediately.