Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Heat Oil

   Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a pan and heat it over medium heat.

2. 2.Add Whole Spices

   Once the oil is hot, add 1 bay leaf, 2 black cardamoms, 1 cinnamon stick, and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds to the pan.

3. 3.Sauté Spices

   Sauté the whole spices for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and the cumin seeds start to crackle.

4. 4.Add Rice

   Add 200g of washed and soaked basmati rice to the pan with the sautéed spices.

5. 5.Lightly Fry Rice

   Gently stir the rice with the spices for about 1 minute to lightly toast the grains and coat them with the aromatic oil.

6. 6.Add Water and Salt

   Pour in 400ml of water and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

7. 7.Cook on High Heat

   Bring the water to a rolling boil and cook on high heat for 5 minutes, or until most of the water is absorbed and small craters appear on the surface of the rice.

8. 8.Add Coriander

   Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander over the rice and gently mix it in.

9. 9.Cover and Simmer

   Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 6-8 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fully cook through.

10. 10.Fluff and Serve

    Remove the pan from heat and let it rest, covered, for a minute or two. Then, gently fluff the rice with a fork or wooden spoon to separate the grains. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.