Exotic Indian Saffron Rice

Instructions:

1. 1. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear, then leave to drain.
2. 2. Heat the ghee in a large pan, add the cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf, and fry for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. 3. Add the drained rice and fry for a further 2-3 minutes, stirring well to coat the rice in the ghee and spices.
4. 4. Add the water and salt, then bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the water has been absorbed.
5. 5. While the rice is cooking, steep the saffron strands in two tablespoons of warm water.
6. 6. Once the rice is done, add the saffron water, almonds, and raisins, stir well. Replace the lid and leave the rice to rest for 5 minutes before serving. The residual heat will plump up the raisins and infuse the rice with the flavors of the saffron.
7. 7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving, and garnish with additional slivered almonds if desired.