1. Grind cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper.
2. Grind chillies, garlic, and ginger with a little water to a fine paste.
3. Heat oil. When hot, add bay leaf, carrot and 1/2 the onion. Fry for 3 minutes.
4. Add ginger garlic paste. Stir and fry for 2 minutes. Add the ground spices.
5. Add washed and drained rice, fry for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add coconut milk, salt and one cup water.
7. Stir and bring to boil.
8. Cover and cook on very low heat for 1/2 hour or till rice are done.
9. In another pan, heat the 1 tbsp oil, add onion, and fry till golden brown.
10. Add the cashew nuts and raisins. Fry for a minute. Spread over the rice before serving