First soak washed Seeraga Samba rice in a cup of water for 15-20 mins. We need the rice to be soft and plump, so soaking helps.
In a heavy bottomed pan, heat 2 teaspoon oil and 1 teaspoon ghee. Add whole spices – cloves, cardamoms, cinnamon, dried bay leaf. Let them fry for a few secs.
Add finely sliced onions, slit green chillies. Fry them on low flame for 10-12 mins.
The onions should turn light golden brown and crisp up around the edges. Now add ginger garlic paste and fry for a couple of minutes until there is no raw smell.
Add the water from soaked rice along with salt as needed.
As the water begins to slowly boil, add thick coconut milk.
Next add the chopped mint leaves. Check for salt and let it come to a slow boil.
Add the soaked rice, mix well and cook it covered for 10-12 mins on low flame.
As there is no more liquid and the rice seem cooked, switch off the heat but keep it covered for another 5-7 mins. Gently fluff up the rice and drizzle the remaining 1 teaspoon ghee on top.
Serve hot with egg fry or kurma or any dry masala on the side.