Basmati Rice, Pilaf Style
1 tablespoon neutral oil, like canola or vegetable
3 inch piece cinnamon stick , halved
2 green cardamom pods
1/4 cup thinly sliced onion
2 whole cloves
1 cup basmati rice
1 teaspoon table salt
1 1/2 cups water
1. Heat oil in a saucepan until it smokes (you’re going to want high heat and some open windows). Add the spices. The cinnamon stick will actually uncurl, which is pretty cool. Once the cardamom pods burst, add the onions and cook until they soften. Mix in the rice and let it get coated with the spice and onion mixture. This whole process should only take a few minutes.
2. Add in the water and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat. Simmer for about 15 minutes or so until the rice has absorbed all the water. Fluff, let sit for a few minutes while covered, and serve.
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