Wash Basmati rice 3-4 times and soak for around 15 minutes

Boil 3 cups of water. Season well with salt and add the sugar.

In a heavy bottomed pan, heat ghee.

Add the whole spices. After a minute or two add the sliced onions

Cook onions till golden brown.

When onions are almost ready, add in raisins and cashews and roast till the cashews start browning a little.

Strain the soaked rice and roast with the browned onions for a couple of minutes.

Now carefully add in the boiling water. Check seasoning again. This is an important step. The water should taste slightly sweet and well seasoned.

Cover and simmer on a low flame for around 10-15 minutes. Serve warm.

When you are feeling extra generous, you can add a dollop of ghee on top of the hot, cooked rice before serving