Bright Rice

Step 1

In a large saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add mustard seeds, turmeric, cloves and cinnamon, and sauté for 1 minute. Add rice and mix until well coated with oil.

Step 2

Add vegetable broth and chickpeas. Stir briefly, and allow to return to a boil. Cover, and cook on lowest possible heat for 20 minutes. If rice has not absorbed all the liquid by then, cover pan with a clean dish towel and place lid over it. Allow to sit off the heat for 5 to 10 minutes. (This method may be used for keeping the rice warm and moist for up to half an hour.)

Step 3

To serve, fluff rice with a fork, and add salt to taste.