Vegetable Pilaf

Vegetable Pilaf: Vegan

2 c. basmati rice

4tbsp coconut oil

1 tsp cumin

4 bay leaves

8 cardamom pods

8 cloves (I use a teaspoon ground cloves)

2 onions, chopped

2 carrots finely diced

2/3 c. frozen peas

2/3 c. frozen corn

½ c cashews (lightly toasted or fried)

½ tsp additional cumin

1 tsp salt

Let the rice soak for 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a large pan. Sauté cumin, bay leaves, cardamom and gloves for a couple minutes. Add onion and cook until it is soft and light brown (about 5 minutes). Stir in carrots and cook for 3-4 more minutes.

Drain rice, add to the pan with peas, corn and nuts. Cook for 4-5 minutes at medium heat.

Add 2 cups water, ground cumin and salt. Bring to a boil, cover and let simmer over low heat for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Let stand 10 minutes covered before serving.