Beenaj Recipe

1 cup basmati (long grain) rice
1 cup sugar
Ghee -1/2 cup
2 cloves
1-1/4 cinnamon stick
2-3 cardamoms
8-10 pistachios
8-10 almonds
15-20 raisins
few drops saffron colour
6 cups water approx.

Method:

1. Blanch (optional) almonds and pistas, cut into thin slivers.
2. Wash and soak rice for 10 minutes.
3. Put water to boil, add rice, cook till 3/4 done.
4. It is done when grain gets mashed between fingers only when forced.
5. Drain out all water. Cool in a large plate.
6. Add sugar and mix gently till with hands till well blended.
7. Heat ghee. Add cloves, cinnamon and cardamom.
8. Add rice, and toss gently with spatula.
9. Dilute colour in 1/2 cup water, sprinkle over rice.
10. When well mixed, cover and simmer till all moisture evaporates.
11. Garnish with pista and almonds.
12. Serve hot.