Cinnamon Basmati Rice with Golden Raisins

Martha Stewart Living

Makes 4 servings

    1 tablespoon unsalt butter                                     
    1 med. yellow onion 1/4-in dice                                
    1/4 teaspoon ground cloves                                     
    1 teaspoon ground cinnamon                                     
    1 cup rice                                                     
    1 dry bay leaf                                                 
    1 cinnamon stick                                               
    2/3 cup golden raisins                                         
    1 teaspoon salt                                                
    1/4 teaspoon pepper                                            
    2 cups water                                                   

Melt butter in a medium high-sided saucepan set over medium heat. Add onion, cloves, and cinnamon; cook until onion becomes translucent and mixture is very fragrant.

Place rice in sieve, and rinse under cold running water. Add rice to saucepan, and stir so grains are coated in butter mixture.

Add bay leaf, cinnamon stick, raisins, salt, and pepper to saucepan. Stir in 2 cups water. Raise heat, and bring to a boil. Cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until all water has been absorbed and rice has cooked, 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove pan from heat, and let stand, covered, 5 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper, and serve.

MXF