Pilaf with Sunflower Seeds and Raisins

Pilaf is a great way to gussy up rice. Start with a little oil and chopped onion, then add garlic and/or dried spices. Some of the spices typically used are cumin, curry, and turmeric. Often a cinnamon stick or whole cardamom pods are added as well. For sweetness, add a handful of raisins or currants. Add the nuts just before serving; they have a tendency to absorb moisture and lose their crunch when added sooner. Toasted sunflower seeds are nice as are toasted pistachios, walnuts, pine nut