Chicken and Basmati Rice Pilau with Saffron, Spinach, and Cardamom
Saffron and basmati rice are natural partners, enhanced here with the orange flavor of cardamom. The aromas commingle in a uniquely exotic fragrance. The cardamom in the pilaf is left whole, so the pods need to be bruised or crushed slightly to allow the flavor of the seeds to escape. Serve this dish with yogurt and cilantro relish flavored with a little crushed garlic and ground, toasted cumin. If you don't have a nonstick skillet large enough to hold 10 cups, use a Dutch oven. Covering the mixture with a towel holds in steam and moisture to finish cooking the rice.