4 whole cloves
3 black cardamom seeds
6 whole black peppercorns
2 (3 inch) cinnamon sticks
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons water
1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
2 cups uncooked basmati rice, rinsed and drained
4 cups water
salt to taste
Heat the oil in a deep heavy skillet over low heat. Add the cloves, cardamom seeds, peppercorns and cinnamon sticks. Cook for a few minutes to bring out the aroma of the spices. Stir the garlic powder and 2 tablespoons of water together to make a paste; mix into the pan with the spices. Add the green peas to the pan, cover and cook for about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 4 cups of water and rice to the pan. Season with a little salt. Bring to a boil, then cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Taste, and adjust the salt before serving.