In a pot, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the rice/pasta, and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the pasta pieces are toasty and golden brown. Then, add the spice mixture, and stir. Add the water, stir to combine. Put the lid on the pot, and turn the heat down to your lowest setting. Leave covered for 15-20 minutes, or until all of the water has been absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork, and serve. Each batch makes 4 servings (more if you are serving children who do not eat quite as much yet, like I do).