Basmati Rice with Cumin, Lentils, and Onion

Name: Basmati Rice with Cumin, Lentils, and Onion (Riz Basmati ma Adas (riz bus-ma-tee ma ud-dus))
Yield: Serves 4
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; ¼ cup lentils; 3 cups water; 1 recipe plain Basmati Rice; ¼ teaspoon and ½ teaspoon salt, divided; ¼ cup coarsely chopped green onion; use light and dark green parts; ¾ teaspoon cumin; ¼ cup golden raisins; ½ cup diced yellow onion (¼ inch)