Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice (soaked)
• 1 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 3-4 cloves
• 1-inch Cinnamon Stick
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric
• 1 onion (sliced)
• Mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, etc.) – optional
• Salt (to taste)
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Sauté until fragrant.
2. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden.
3. If using vegetables, add them now and cook for a couple of minutes.
4. Stir in turmeric and salt, then add soaked rice.
5. Pour in water, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked.