Cook the rice till it is 90% done. Do not overcook the rice else the fried rice will turn mushy.

Once the rice is done, remove the water and spread it. Do not cover the rice else the cooking procedure of the rice will continue.

In a deep-bottomed pan take the oil and heat it.

Once the oil is hot, add the bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves and the sugar.

Let the sugar caramelize. This gives a reddish colour to the fried rice. But be careful not to burn the sugar.

Add the chopped cashews and saute them till golden.

Now, add all the chopped vegetables and fry them till all the vegetables are cooked properly.

Add the raisins and green chilies and ghee and turn off the flame.

Now, add half of the rice to the pan and mix carefully. Do not break the rice grains.

Add the remaining rice to the pan and mix again carefully.

Now, add the sugar to the rice.

Cover the pan with the lid and cook on very low flame till the rice is completely done. This will also result in melting of sugar.

Serve hot with any dish of your choice.