Peas pilaf (pulao)

Peas pilaf can go with any side dish or lentils and very easy to do. For extra richness and flavor, I added coconut milk, it can be replaced with water too. Basmati rice has a nice aroma, but any good quality long grain rice can be used. To get good texture of the rice, cook on low heat after one boil and do not stir constantly which will break the rice. 

Ingredients:

• Basmati rice - 1cup
• Peas - 1/2 cup
• Bay leaf - 1 
• Cinnamon sticks - 1, small
• Cloves - 3
• Water - 1 cup
• Cashews - 3, broken
• Coconut milk - 1 cup
• Oil - 1 tbsp
• Salt - to taste

Method:

Soak basmati rice for 30 minutes in plenty of water and drain. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan for 30 seconds; add cloves, cinnamon, cashews, bay leaf and peas. Cook for a minute on a medium heat.

Add soaked rice, water, coconut milk and salt to taste, bring to boil and cook, covered, on low heat till rice is cooked. 

Serve hot with brinjal curry or mirch ka salan or any gravies.