Date rice (ruz bil-tamr)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then soak it for 30 minutes.
2. Cut the dates in halves or quarters, depending on their size.
3. Thinly slice the onions and colour them gently in the butter for 10 minutes until deep golden brown.
4. Add the dates and cinnamon and fry for 3 minutes, stirring.
5. Add the drained rice and stir to coat it, then pour in the salted water.
6. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to the minimum, cover and cook for 18 minutes.
7. Turn off the heat, let it rest covered for 10 minutes, remove the cinnamon stick and gently fluff before serving with the almonds.