Saffron Rice

Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon saffron thread
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (butter, margarine or ghee ok)
• 1-2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice, uncooked
• 8 whole cloves
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2-3/4 teaspoon black pepper (amount to taste)
• 1/2 cup cooked green peas (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   Soak saffron in 1/2 cup boiling water for 20-30 minutes.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, saute onions in the ghee until tender; set aside.

3. 3

   Rinse the basmati under cold water in a sieve, until water runs clear, allow to drain.

4. 4

   Place the rice and the onions in a saucepan and add the 1/2 cup saffron water as well as 2 1/2 cups hot water, the cardamon pods, the cloves, and the salt and pepper; stir to mix.

5. 5

   Bring to a boil over medium heat then reduce heat, cover, and cook over low heat until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.

6. 6

   If any liquid remains, drain it.

7. 7

   Stir peas into mixture, if desired, as a garnish; serve.