Indian Spiced Rice

Description
Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

 * 3/4 cup chopped dates
 * 1/2 cup chopped Onion
 * 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
 * 1/2 cup slivered almonds
 * 1 clove garlic, minced
 * 1 tablespoon butter
 * 2 cups water*
 * 1 cup uncooked aromatic rice
 * 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
 * 3/4 teaspoon salt
 * 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
 * 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom

Directions

 * 1) Cook dates, Onion, green pepper, almonds and garlic in butter in 3-quart saucepan until vegetables are tender crisp.
 * 2) Add water, rice, lemon peel, salt, cloves and cardamom.
 * 3) Heat to boiling; stir once or twice.
 * 4) Reduce heat to simmer; cover and cook 15 to 20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
 * 5) Fluff with fork.