GINGER APRICOT RICE WITH PEANUTS

Steps:

• Wash the rice and soak if desired. If you are using a rice other than basmati, skip this step.
• Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 minute.
• Add ginger root. Continue to cook 2 minutes more.
• Add apricots and spices, along with about a tbsp of water. Continue to cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly and adding small amounts of water if necessary, about a tbsp at a time to prevent sticking.
• Add water starting with the rice soaking water if you are using soaked basmati rice, and adding enough tap water to equal the 2 cups. Add salt.
• Bring to a boil, then stir in rice. When water boils again, stir, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and simmer gently for 20 minutes, until liquid has been absorbed.
• Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
• Fluff rice with a fork, spoon into a serving bowl and top with peanuts.