Basmati rice is a staple in most Indian households.

There are many ways that we prepare it.  Sometimes it is the star of the meal and at others it is a side dish.

This dish is my go to comfort meal that is ready in about 20 minutes.  I make it often and if you just change up the vegetables or other ingredients you add – you have a new dish each time.

And another thing: something I always knew but recently read a study to verify it is also exciting news. And that is that some frozen vegetables like peas can have more nutrients when frozen. Following is the link for the study:
http://www.thekitchn.com/are-frozen-vegetables-as-good-for-you-as-fresh-heres-what-you-need-to-know-244911?utm_source=k_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=04262017

So my sweet friend who I call my sweet has been trying to cook for himself and this is one dish that I know he will enjoy.

Here goes.  It is very simple really.

The spices:

1 tsp. black mustard seeds or cumin seeds

2 cardamom pods

1 bay leaf

a few dry red chilies (optional)

In a tbs of oil, add the spices and cook for a minute or until the mustard seeds pop.  Once they pop, add a red onion slice along with a tsp of salt and saute for about 5 minutes until they are brown and caramelized.

Once the onions are nice and brown, add a cup of frozen peas or any other frozen vegetable you like.

Stir for a minute or so and then add 2 cups of basmati rice. Now stir again to brown the rice a little.

Next add 4 cups of water and stir to break up any lumps that the rice has formed.  Taste the liquid for salt and bring to a boil on high heat uncovered.

Once it comes to a boil, cover the pot and lower the heat to low.

18 -20 minutes later you have beautifully cooked rice.

Turn off the heat and let stand for about 10 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot with yogurt and pickle or lentils.

You have dinner!

Until I cook again!