Lamb Biriyani

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup(s) plain yogurt
• 2   cloves garlic, minced
• 1/8 teaspoon(s) cayenne
• 1/2 teaspoon(s) ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon(s) fresh-ground black pepper
• 1 3/4 teaspoon(s) salt
• 1  pound(s) boneless lamb, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3  tablespoon(s) butter
• 1   onion, cut into thin slices
• 1/4 teaspoon(s) ground cardamom or ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon(s) turmeric
• 5   cloves
• 1   cinnamon stick, broken in half
• 1 1/2 cup(s) long-grain rice, preferably basmati
• 2 3/4 cup(s) water
• 1/3 cup(s) raisins
• 1/3 cup(s) chopped cashews

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt with the garlic, cayenne, cumin, black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Stir in the lamb.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over moderate heat. Add the onion and cook until starting to soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in the cardamom, turmeric, cloves, cinnamon, rice and the remaining 1 1/4 teaspoons salt. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
3. Add the lamb mixture to the pan. Stir in the water and raisins. Bring to a simmer. Cover and simmer until the rice and lamb are almost done, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat. Let stand, covered, until the rice and lamb are just done, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cashews.
4. Variation: Other nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, can easily stand in for the cashews.

Image from:

http://www.foodbuzz.com/recipes/1471954-easy-lamb-biryani