Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes for better texture.

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat.

Stir in the washed rice, raisins, and grated lemon peel into the boiling water.

Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes (or 45 minutes for brown rice) until all the liquid is absorbed.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fully steam.

Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

Spoon the lemon-scented rice into a serving bowl.

Sprinkle the coarsely chopped pistachios evenly over the top of the rice.

Serve immediately and enjoy!