Raisin Saffron Basmati Rice Pilaf (Zaffran Kismis Pullao) - California Raisins

Ingredients

• 2 Cups uncooked basmati rice
• 1 / 2 Teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 Cup coconut milk
• 6 Tablespoons butter or vegetable oil, divided
• 1 Cup finely chopped red onions
• 1 Tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 Teaspoon minced garlic
• 6 whole cloves
• 3 black cardamom pods
• 2 (3-inch pieces) cinnamon sticks
• 1 Cup California golden raisins, divided
• 2 Tablespoons sugar
• 1 1 / 2 Teaspoons salt
• 2 Cups water
• 1 / 2 Cup slivered almonds
• 2 Tablespoons minced fresh cilantro