Shrimp Pilav

Pratibha runs the social development programs including Darpan and Social Action. She notes: "SHARE is unconventional in that we social workers do not design programs on our own. We work with the women, listen to them, get them to identify a problem and find a way to solve it. That is what I love about my work."

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp. neutral vegetable oil (not olive oil)
• 2 - 3 whole cloves
• 2 - 3 whole black peppercorns
• ½ inch cinnamon (whole, stick)
• 1 Tbsp. cayenne or other ground hot red chili
• 1 tsp. ground turmeric
• 1 ½ tsp. ginger-garlic paste
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• ½ lb. large raw shrimp, trimmed and cleaned
• 1 cup raw white rice
• Salt to taste
• Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish

Cooking:

Heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a deep pan over medium heat.  Add cloves, peppercorns and cinnamon stick, cayenne and turmeric. Stir and add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Add chopped onions and fry 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently especially at the beginning.
Add chopped tomatoes, rice, and salt.  Stir in 1½ cup water and let it come to a boil.  Turn to low and cook for 5 minutes covered. Add shrimp, stir and cook for another 5-7 minutes or till the rice is cooked.