Golden Basmati Rice

1 cup white basmati rice
1 cup diced onions
2 teaspoons canola or other vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
2 cups water
1 1/2 cups peeled and grated carrots
1 teaspoon freshly grated orange peel
3/4 teaspoon salt

Rinse the rice and soak it in water to cover for 30 minutes.
          When the rice has soaked for about 20 minutes, saute the onions in oil for about 5 minutes.  Add the turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom.  Cook, stirring constantly, for another minute and set aside.  Bring the 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.  Stir in the onion mixture, carrots, orange peel and salt.  Drain the rice and add it to the saucepan.  Return it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until tender.
        Remove from the heat and allow to sit 10 minutes.  Just before serving, stir the rice to fluff it.