Adas Polo/ Pulow ~ Persian Lentil Rice

1. Wash the lentils. Boil in water for around 15 minutes. Drain. 2. In a large saucepan, heat half the butter. Fry the cardamom, cinnamon and cumin briefly. 3. Add the onion along with sugar and some salt and start frying till caramelized. The sugar will give the onions a nice color. 4. Add the drained lentils and pepper powder and saute for a minute. 5. Add in the drained rice and saute for five minutes till crispy. 6. Add in the water and allow it to boil. Adjust the salt. 7. Reduce the flame to the minimum. Add the remaining butter, apricots and raisins into the rice and mix. 8. Keep on closed lid. Midway, sprinkle the saffron water and give a stir. 9. Continue to cook on closed lid undisturbed till the rice is completely done.