Real Talk: If you don't have garam masala, which is a
very popular spice blend in India and other South Asian countries usually made of peppercorns, cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, and cloves, use a
mild chili
powder,
curry powder, or ground cumin instead.
2 cups Basmati rice, washed and soaked in water for 1 hour 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 level teaspoon mustard seeds 1 tablespoon channa dal 1/2 medium Spanish or
mild onion, sliced 2 serrano chiles, stems and seeds remove,
very thinly sliced 1 sprig fresh
curry leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried
curry leaves, rehydrated and patted dry 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
powder 1 quart water Juice of 4 limes Salt to taste Chopped cilantro, whole cashew nuts, and lime wedges for garnish