1Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain before cooking.
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides.
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
Stir in yogurt and mix well. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes, or until beef is tender. Add water as needed to maintain a thick gravy.
Meanwhile, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a separate pot. Add soaked rice and a pinch of salt. Cook until rice is 90% done, then drain.
Warm 1 tablespoon of ghee and dissolve the saffron in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Drizzle the saffron water over the rice and gently fluff.
Serve the beef salan hot with saffron rice on the side.