I really like brown rice, but it is an acquired taste. I also think it tastes better with a few ingredients added to jazz it up, which this recipe does.
Note: Brown rice should be thoroughly rinsed and takes a bit longer to cook than regular rice. The proportions are always double the amount of water to rice if you want to make more/less.
3 cups water
1 1/2 cups brown rice (Jasmine or Basmati varieties are available and very tasty)
Bring water to a boil, then add rice. When it comes back to boil cover and reduce heat, simmering until liquid is absorbed (about 35 minutes. Check directions on rice package.)
While Rice is cooking, prepare other ingredients as follows:
3 Tbsp Butter or Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Cashews or Almonds, coarsely chopped
1/2 Cup Sesame Seeds (White or Black, but the white are easier to saute!)
1/4 Tsp Cayenne Pepper
1 Bay leaf, crumbled.
In a frying pan, heat 1 Tbsp oil and sauté nuts until golden, stirring frequently so they don't burn. Set aside when done.
Heat additional 2 Tbsp oil in pan, and sauté sesame seeds, cayenne and bay leaf, until sesame seeds are golden. Set aside.
When rice is done, let sit for about 5 minutes, then add all the cooked ingredients, mixing thoroughly. Taste for salt, add as needed.
