Basmati Rice - Indian Style

By Hester

Great authentic basmati rice to be served with chicken tikka masala or chicken tandoori.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cinnamon stick (2 inch)
• 2 green cardamom pods
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon cumin seed
• 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

Preparation

Step 1

Place rice into a bowl with enough water to cover. Set aside to soak for 20 minutes. DO NOT skip this step, its very important.

Heat the oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat.

Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and cumin seed.

Cook and stir for about a minute, then add the onion to the pot.

Saute the onion until a rich golden brown, about 10 minutes.

Drain the water from the rice, and stir into the pot.

Cook and stir the rice for a few minutes, until lightly toasted.

Add salt and water to the pot, and bring to a boil.

Cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all of the water has been absorbed.

Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving.

Remove the pods, cloves, cinnamon stick before serving.