Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear.
Drain thoroughly.
In a medium saucepan, bring the coconut milk, water, crushed cardamom pods, salt, and saffron to a rolling boil.
Stir in the rinsed rice.
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 5-10 minutes.
Remove the lid, discard the cardamom pods, and drizzle the lime juice over the top. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve warm.