Wash the rice with water 2-3 times, until the water is clear.

Heat ghee or oil in a pot on medium heat. Then add the whole spices - bay leaf, cinnamon, star anise, and cardamom. Saute for 30 seconds until they release their aroma.

Add the diced onion and garlic. Saute for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Add the turmeric, salt and stir. Then add the rinsed rice and saute for 30 seconds. Now add the water and give it a stir.

Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat down to the lowest setting , cover with the lid. Let it simmer for 12 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.

Remove from heat and keep the pot covered for another 8-10 minutes. Then remove the lid, and fluff the rice with a fork. Enjoy!

Follow the same steps as above until adding the rice and water in the instant pot on Saute mode. Then pressure cook for 4 minutes at high pressure. When the instant pot beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then manually release the pressure. Fluff the rice with a fork and enjoy!