Brad's Vegetarian Biryani

This recipe was given to me by a friend, co-worker and excellent cook!  Brad is also a musician, fisherman and  family man.  I wonder...... is it in spite of or because of the fact he is from the maritimes that he is such a great guy?

Anyway, this recipe is one of our favorites and a regular dish at our table.  Hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 cups cooked mixed vegetables
1 can chickpeas, drained
2 tomatoes, chopped
1/3 cup raisins
1/4 cup slivered almonds
4 tablespoons Pataks Biryani Paste
2 1/2  cups boiling water

Saute rice in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil for 2-3 minutes.  Remove from heat.
In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil and saute onions and garlic until the onions are soft.
Add vegetables, chickpeas, and tomatoes.  Cook 2-3 minutes.
Add raisins, almonds, biryani paste, and water.  Mix well making sure biryani paste is well dissolved.
Add rice and mix well.
Transfer to a covered baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.