Instructions: * Note: At least 3 hours or up to 2 days ahead, in a 3- to 4-quart pan, combine 2 1/2 cups rinsed and drained basmati or long-grain white rice and 4 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until most of the water is absorbed, 6 to 8 minutes. Cover and cook over low heat until rice is tender to bite, 8 to 10 minutes more. Pour rice onto a tray and let cool, then cover and chill until cold. To use, break grains apart with your fingers.

Set a 5- to 6-quart pan or 14-inch wok over medium-high heat. Add oil, mustard seed, and cumin seed.

When the seeds begin to pop, in 2 to 3 minutes, stir in the onion, chilies, turmeric, and curry leaves. Stir often until the onion is limp, about 4 minutes.

Reduce heat to low. Add rice, peas, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and sugar. Stir until rice is evenly colored yellow. Sprinkle with lime juice and mix well. Cover and stir occasionally until rice is hot, 6 to 10 minutes. Add salt to taste. Transfer to a platter.

Sprinkle rice mixture with cashews and cilantro. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.

This recipe yields 6 to 8 servings.

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