Served as main course. Suitable for vegetarians. Speciality: Recipe for microwave cooking.

Indian

4 Tablespoons Clarified Butter(Ghee)/Butter

1 inch Cinnamon Stick, broken

2 each of Bay Leaves and Cloves

1 teaspoon Black Peppercorns

4 large Onions, finely sliced

2 cups Basmati Rice

4 cups Warm Water

Salt to taste

Pour the melted clarified butter(ghee) in a microwave-safe large deep bowl. Add the whole spices and microwave uncovered on high (100%) power for about 1 minute. Add the onion slices and microwave uncovered on high (100%) power for about 4 minutes (stirring mid-way) or till the onions are soft and cooked (they should remain pale). Add the rice and mix well. Pour in the warm water and add the salt. Mix well. Microwave covered for about 11 minutes (stirring mid-way) or till the rice is done and all the water has evaporated. Separate the grains of rice with a fork lightly to fluff them up.

Preparation time: 7-10 minutes

Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

Serves: 4

Tips:

Ghee may be readily available off the shelf in Indian stores. However, it is important that it be fresh stock.

Traditionally flavored rice or Basmati rice is used for this recipe. If it is difficult to obtain Basmati rice, any other long-grained rice is fine.

When the microwave cooking time for a step exceeds 2 minutes, it is highly recommended the contents be checked and stirred at regular intervals to avoid burning of food. Standing time is a very important step as it completes the microwave cooking process of a dish. Ideally, allow the dish to stand for about 5 minutes before serving.

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