Ginger Apricot Rice With Peanuts

This slightly sweet rice makes a delicious accompaniment to any Indian entree.

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  cup basmati rice (or other long grain rice)
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons  vegetable oil
• 1⁄2 cup onion, chopped
• 1⁄2 cup celery, chopped
• 1  teaspoon  fresh gingerroot, finely minced
• 1⁄4 cup  dried apricot, chopped
• 1  teaspoon curry powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1⁄16 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2  cups water
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 2  tablespoons peanuts, coarsely chopped, dry roasted, unslated

Directions

1. Wash the rice and soak if desired. If you are using a rice other than basmati, skip this step.
2. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 minute.
3. Add ginger root. Continue to cook 2 minutes more.
4. Add apricots and spices, along with about a tbsp of water. Continue to cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly and adding small amounts of water if necessary, about a tbsp at a time to prevent sticking.
5. Add water starting with the rice soaking water if you are using soaked basmati rice, and adding enough tap water to equal the 2 cups. Add salt.
6. Bring to a boil, then stir in rice. When water boils again, stir, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and simmer gently for 20 minutes, until liquid has been absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
8. Fluff rice with a fork, spoon into a serving bowl and top with peanuts.