SIMPLE SIDE
Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in medium saucepan over high heat until just shimmering. Add 1 cinnamon stick and 2 green cardamom pods, and cook, stirring until pods pop. Add ½ cup thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring until lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup basmati rice and 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add 1½ cups water and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook until water has absorbed and rice is tender, about 17 minutes. Let sit, covered, for 10 minutes, then fluff with fork. Serves 4.