Cook onion and garlic in a 3-4 quart heavy saucepan over med-low heat until softened. Add curry powder and rice and cook, stirring often, about 1 min. Add water and salt and bring to a boil, uncovered, without stirring, until the surface of the rice is covered with steam holes and the grains on top appear dry (about 8 minutes). Reduce heat to as low as possible, then cover with a tight fitting lid. Cook another 15 minutes. Remove pan from heat and let stand another five minutes before serving.