Fragrant Spiced Sweet Rice

1. Heat the Oil and Fry Spices

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a 2–3-quart heavy-bottomed pot until it's very hot. Once the oil is ready, add the whole cloves, cardamom pods, black peppercorns, and bay leaf, frying them for about 5 seconds. These spices will release their essential oils, and you’ll notice them expanding and changing color slightly.

2. Add and Caramelize Onions

Next, add the sliced onions to the pot. Fry them for about 3 to 5 minutes, until they turn light brown with darkish edges. This caramelization process will deepen the flavor profile of your dish.

3. Add Rice and Spices

Add the long-grain rice, ground coriander, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir the mixture continuously for about 5 minutes to ensure that the rice is well-coated with the spices and absorbs their flavors.

4. Add Stock and Salt

Pour in the beef stock and add the salt. Stir everything together, then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the flavorful broth and cook evenly.

5. Add Brown Sugar and Finish Cooking

After 15 minutes, add the granulated brown sugar to the pot. Stir it in well, then cover the pot again and let it cook for another 15 to 20 minutes. The brown sugar will enhance the sweetness and balance the spices. When the rice is tender and fully cooked, it’s ready to serve. Enjoy the fragrant and spiced sweet rice with your favorite main dish!