Spiced Basmati Rice with Lentils and Caramelized Onions

Yield:	4 Servings
Categories:	Indian, Rice

1	tb	Butter
4	c	Sliced onions
1/2	c	Dried lentils
2 1/2	c	Water
3		Whole cardamom pods
2		Whole allspice
1		Bay leaf
1	ts	Salt
1	c	Basmati rice or long-grain white rice