Indian Style Rice

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain basmati rice
• 8 cups water
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• One 2-inch piece of cinnamon
• 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dark mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 chopped garlic cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric

Directions

1. Put the rice in a sieve and rinse it under cool running water until the water looks clear. Cover the rice with cool water and soak for 30 minutes, then drain it.
2. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and the salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, then add the cloves, cardamom and cinnamon. Lower to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Taste a few grains to see whether the texture is where you want it. Rice may need a little more or less time depending on its age, so if it still feels too firm, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
4. Once the rice is cooked to your preference, pour it into a colander and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking. Pick out and discard the cloves, cardamom and cinnamon, then leave the rice to drain.
5. Choose a pan big enough to hold the rice and warm the oil over medium-high heat. Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds and chili flakes.
6. Cook the spices until the mustard seeds begin to pop, then stir in the onion. Sauté until the onion starts to take on color, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Add the garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the rice until everything is combined, then scatter the turmeric over the top and mix again. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.