In the traditional version of this dish, the rice, paneer and vegetables all cook together. I like the vegetables to remain crunchy, however, so I cook them separately, then stir them into the rice toward the end of its cooking time. Serve this subtle pilaf lamb chops or spicy stews.

Wash rice thoroughly. Place in a bowl, cover with water and let soak 15 minutes. Drain.

Cut paneer into cubes. Brush with 1/2 tablespoon of the oil and broil 2 minutes per side. Set aside.

Heat remaining oil in a Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add cauliflower, carrots and peppers.

Stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until edges of peppers start to brown. Remove with slotted spoon and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium. Add cashews and fry until light golden; remove and set aside. Add raisins and fry until plump; remove.

Add whole spices to the pan. Stir and cook 1 minute.

Add rice, increase heat to medium-high, and stir fry until rice is well coated with oil and begins to glisten, about 5 minutes. Add water, tomato sauce and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes. Uncover and gently stir in vegetables and paneer,

Cover and cook 5 minutes longer.

Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes,

Fluff rice gently with a fork and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fried raisins and cashews.

Per Serving: 365 calories, 11 g protein, 46 g carbohydrate, 15 g fat (6 g saturated), cholesterol (not available), 716 mg sodium, 2 g fiber.

From an article by Laxmi Hiremath from the San Francisco Chronicle, 9/1/93.