Vegetable Pilaf

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 whole cloves

3 black cardamom pods

6 whole black peppercorns

2 (3 inch) cinnamon sticks

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 tablespoons water

1 cup frozen vegetables, thawed

2 cups uncooked basmati rice, rinsed and drained

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1) Heat the oil in a deep heavy skillet over low heat. Add the cloves, cardamom seeds, peppercorns and cinnamon sticks. Cook for a few minutes to bring out the aroma of the spices. Stir the garlic powder and 2 tablespoons of water together to make a paste; mix into the pan with the spices.

2) Add the vegetables to the pan, cover and cook for about 5 minutes.

3) Add the remaining 4 cups of water and rice to the pan. Season with a little salt. Bring to a boil, then cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Taste, and adjust the salt before serving.

*Makes 6 servings*