Matar Pulao (Indian Rice with Peas)

Ingredients (for 4 servings)

• 1 whole — Rice
• 1 cup — basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 15–20 minutes • 1 3/4 to 2 cups water (adjust based on rice type) • 1 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1 whole — Whole spices
• 1 whole — bay leaf • 2–3 cloves • 1 small cinnamon stick • 2–3 green cardamom pods • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds • 4–6 black peppercorns
• 1 whole — Base
• ½ cup — onion, thinly sliced • 1 tsp ginger, grated • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen) • 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1 whole — Finish
• 1 tbsp — lemon juice • Fresh cilantro, chopped