Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add the onions and garlic and cook until soft. Add the cinnamon, bay leaf, cloves, cardamom and cumin and cook for 1 minute. Add the boiling water and raisins and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the water come back to a boil, stir once, cover the pot, reduce the heat and let cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit 10 minutes. Remove lid and fluff with a fork, fold in cashews and reseason with salt and pepper to taste. Serve at room temperature.