Indian P'lau Rice with Cashews and Raisins

**Servings:** 2

**Time:**
- **Total Time:** 40 minutes
- **Preparation Time:** 10 minutes
- **Overnight Preparation Required:** Not applicable
- **Cooking Time:** 30 minutes

**Tools:**
- Induction-compatible pot with lid
- Small bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board

**Ingredients:**
- **Basmati Rice:** 1/2 cup
- **Water:** 1 cup
- **Ghee or Oil:** 1 tablespoon
- **Onion:** 1/2 medium, thinly sliced
- **Garlic:** 1 clove, minced
- **Ginger:** 1/2-inch piece, grated
- **Cumin Seeds:** 1/2 teaspoon
- **Cinnamon Stick:** 1/2
- **Cardamom Pods:** 2
- **Cloves:** 2
- **Bay Leaf:** 1/2
- **Turmeric Powder:** 1/4 teaspoon
- **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon
- **Cashews:** 2 tablespoons
- **Raisins:** 2 tablespoons
- **Fresh Cilantro:** For garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**
1. **Preparation:**
   - Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20 minutes, then drain.
   - Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.

2. **Cooking Spices and Aromatics:**
   - Set the induction stovetop to medium heat.
   - Heat the ghee or oil in the induction-compatible pot.
   - Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   - Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
   - Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.

3. **Adding Rice and Spices:**
   - Add the drained basmati rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the spices and oil.
   - Sprinkle the turmeric powder and salt over the rice and mix well.

4. **Cooking Rice:**
   - Pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a boil on high heat.
   - Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.

5. **Roasting Cashews and Raisins:**
   - Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside in a bowl.
   - Wipe the pot clean with a paper towel and return it to the induction stovetop.
   - Set the heat to medium and dry roast the cashews in the pot until they are golden brown. Remove and set aside.
   - In the same pot, add the raisins and cook until they puff up. Remove and set aside.

6. **Combining Ingredients:**
   - Return the cooked rice to the pot.
   - Stir in the roasted cashews and raisins.

7. **Finishing Touches:**
   - Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

8. **Serving:**
   - Serve the p'lau rice hot as a side dish or as a main course with raita or curry.

**Health Benefits:**
- **Basmati Rice:** A good source of carbohydrates and provides energy.
- **Cashews:** Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins.
- **Raisins:** High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

**Keywords:**
Indian p'lau rice, cashews, raisins, basmati rice, easy recipe, aromatic rice, side dish

This photorealistic illustration was created using advanced AI technology by DALL-E. 

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