Matar Pulao (Rice with Peas)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 whole cloves
• 3 black cardamom seeds
• 6 whole black peppercorns
• 2 (3 inch) cinnamon sticks
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 2 cups uncooked basmati rice, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups water
• Salt to taste

Directions

Heat the oil in a deep heavy skillet over low heat. Add the cloves, cardamom seeds, peppercorns and cinnamon sticks. Cook for a few minutes to bring out the aroma of the spices. Stir the garlic powder and 2 tablespoons of water together to make a paste; mix into the pan with the spices.

Add the green peas to the pan, cover and cook for about 5 minutes.

Add the remaining 4 cups of water and rice to the pan. Season with a little salt. Bring to a boil, then cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Taste, and adjust the salt before serving.