Bring the water to a boil in a 4 - 5-quart pot; add salt and rice. Give it a good stir. Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the rice is just cooked. Drain into a sieve. Place 2 cups water back into the pot; bring to a boil. Place the sieve over the boiling water, (it is best if the sieve fits nicely into the pot); cover and steam 10 minutes. Put rice into a serving dish, fluff with a fork, add butter and parsley, if using, and serve.