Steep the rice in a bowl of water for 20 minutes. Drain and rinse the rice. Add the 1 1/2 cups of water and the rice to a medium sauce pot. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat, cover, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes.

In a large saucepan combine the half-and-half, the sugar, raisins and cardamom. Add the rice and bring to a gentle simmer, uncovered, for 25 minutes. Remove from the heat, let cool and scoop into small bowls. Serve sprinkled with pistachios and enjoy!!!

This recipe was provided by professional chefs and has been scaled down from a bulk recipe provided by a restaurant. The Food Network Kitchens chefs have not tested this recipe, in the proportions indicated, and therefore, we cannot make any representation as to the results.