Here’s a simple recipe for Coconut Milk Rice in the Indian style:

Ingredients:

1.1 cup Basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)

2.1 cup coconut milk (fresh or canned)

3.1 ¼ cup water

4.1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) or oil

5.1 small onion, finely chopped

6.2-3 green chilies, slit

7.1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

8.1-inch piece of ginger, minced

9.1-2 cinnamon sticks

10.2-3 cloves

11.1-2 cardamom pods

12.1 bay leaf

13.1 tbsp cashews (optional)

14.1 tbsp raisins (optional)

15.Salt to taste

16.Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

Rinse the Rice:

Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the water and set aside.

Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture:

In a separate bowl, combine the coconut milk and water. Mix well and set aside.

Heat the Ghee:

In a pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and bay leaf. Let them splutter for a few seconds.

Saute Onions and Aromatics:

Add the chopped onions and saute until they turn golden brown. Then, add the minced ginger, garlic (if using), and green chilies. Stir for a minute until the raw smell of the ginger and garlic disappears.

Add Cashews and Raisins:

(Optional) Add cashews and raisins to the pan and fry them until golden brown.

Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the pan and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes, so that the rice is coated with the ghee and spices.

Add Coconut Milk Mixture:

Pour in the coconut milk-water mixture and add salt to taste. Stir gently, making sure the rice is evenly mixed with the coconut milk.

Simmer:

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 12-15 minutes (or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed).

Fluff the Rice:

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with a side of curry.

Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Coconut Milk Rice!