Step 1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan and gently fry the cardamom and cinnamon until the spices’ aromas are released, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Add the onion and gently fry for around 5 minutes, or until it has softened and has become translucent.

Step 3

Add the garlic and stir fry for another 2 minutes.

Step 4

Tip in the rice, cumin, turmeric, cloves and bay leaves.

Step 5

Stir vigorously then pour in the water.

Step 6

Turn up the heat, give it another stir then wait for a slow simmering point to be reached.

Step 7

Once it slowly simmers, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Step 8

Fluff up the rice with a fork and serve immediately with your favourite curry. Enjoy!