Vegetable Biryani

2 Tbsp light olive oil

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 carrot, diced

1/2 onion, diced

1 tsp turmeric

3/4 tsp garlic, minced

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp ginger

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

1 cup uncooked Basmati rice

2 cups water

1/2 cup frozen peas

1/2 cup raisins

salt to taste

3/4 cup whole roasted, salted cashews

In a 3-quart saucepan, saute the onion, carorot and bell pepper in the oil until tender. Reduce heat to low. Add the garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and cayenne. Saute for 2 more minutes. Add rice and water. On medium high heat, bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes or until rice is tender. Add peas and raisins. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Add salt to taste. Garnish with cashews.