BASMATI RICE WITH DRIED FRUIT AND NUTS

From Susie Marchesini (Stephanie Randall's mom)

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 small yellow inion, minced
1 1/2 up Basmati rice
salt and pepper
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground allspice
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup cranberries
1/2 cup coarsely chopped dried apricots
1/2 cup pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped

In a saucepan over medium heat melt the butter.  Add the onion and saute, stirring until soft.  Meanwhile, rince the rice well and drain.  When the onion is ready, add the rice, 3 1/2 cups water, 3/4 salt, pepper to taste, cinnamon, allspice, cranberries, raisins, and apricots to the saucepan.  Bring to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover and cook without stirring or removing the cover for 20 minutes.  Uncover and check to see if the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.  If not, re-cover and cook a few minutes longer until the rice is done.

Add the pecans and toss to combine.  Transfer to a warm dish and serve.

Serves 6

From The Best of the Kitchen Library: Vegetarian by Williams Sonoma