Indian Style Basmati Rice

Place rice into a bowl with enough water to cover. Set aside to soak for 20 minutes.

Heat the oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick cardamom pods cloves and cumin seed. Cook and stir for about a minute then add the onion to the pot. Saute the onion until a rich golden brown about 10 minutes. Drain the water from the rice and stir into the pot. Cook and stir the rice for a few minutes until lightly toasted. Add salt and water to the pot and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until all of the water has been absorbed. Let stand for 5 minutes then fluff with a fork before serving.