Nutty Basmati Pilaf

Nutty, slightly sweet in flavor, this rice pilaf dish beautifully complements any Indian meal. Translated from "Cocina Tradicional India" by Rafi Fernandez.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄4 cups basmati rice
• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 1  onion, minced
• 2  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  teaspoon cumin seed
• 2  teaspoons coriander powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cardamom
• 1  bay leaf
• 2  cups chicken broth or 2  cups vegetable broth
• 1⁄2 cup  nuts (pistachios, cashews, slivered almonds)
•  salt and pepper
• 1  tablespoon  chopped cilantro (to garnish)

Directions

1. Wash rice in a sieve under cold running water until water runs mostly clear.
2. Place rice in a bowl with fresh cold water, and let sit 30 minutes.
3. Drain well.
4. Heat oil in a larger sauté pan, and lightly sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the rice, cumin seeds, coriander, cardamom and bay leaf.
6. Toss rice to coat well with the seasonings, and lightly sauté 2 minutes.
7. Add broth, and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to low, and cook 10 minutes.
9. (Do not lift lid.) Remove from heat and allow to sit 5 minutes before lifting lid.
10. Add nuts and toss to combine.
11. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
12. For Vegetarians use the vegetable broth.