Sweet Saffron Rice (Kesari Bhaat)

1 c Basmati rice (uncooked)

1 pn Saffron threads

1/4 c -Boiling water

2 c Water or vegetable stock

1 Cinnamon stick

5 Whole cloves

1/4 ts Sea salt

1/2 c Jaggery or light brown sugar

1 ts Crushed cardamom seeds

1/4 c Slivered almonds

1/4 c Currants

2 tb Canola oil

Place rice in a strainer and rinse with cool water until water runs clear. Set aside. Place saffron in a small glass bowl, add boiling water and let soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir together rice, 2 cups water, cinnamon, cloves and salt in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. (Do not remove cover while cooking.) Remove from heat and set aside. Simmer saffron water, jaggery and cardamom in a small saucepan over low heat until mixture forms a syrup, about 2 to 3 minutes. Pour over rice. Saute almonds and currants in oil only until currants puff slightly and nuts turn lightly brown. Gently fold into rice mixture, fluff with a fork, and serve. Per serving: 300 cal, 4 g prot, 213 mg sod, 54 g carb, 9 g fat, 0 mg chol, 72 mg calcium

HINT: Substitute 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup or 1/2 cup jaggery and reduce water or broth by 2 tablespoons. Source: Vegetarian Gourmet, Autumn 1993 Typed for you by Karen Mintzias