EAST AFRICAN FOOD. Pilau with salad on the side and some cooked hot pepper

Make the pilau masala: In a medium bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, cardamom, black pepper, and cloves. Set aside.

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil and red onion and sauté for 10-15 minutes, until dark brown.

Add the garlic, ginger, serrano chile, pilau masala, beef stock cubes, cinnamon stick, and cilantro. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the beef and cook until browned, about 8 minutes.

Add the tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the tomatoes have released their liquid.
Add the potatoes and the water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes.

Add the rice, stir, and cover. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 20 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed