Soak the basmati rice in water for 30 min and drain well.Melt 1 1/2 T butter in a skillet and saute' the onions and raisins and cashew nuts till they turn golden brown.Keep aside. Melt rest of the butter in the skillet and add basmati rice and fry till they don't stick together.Add all the spices and mix well. Preheat the oven to 375F .Empty the basmati rice into a baking pan add salt and 1 1/2 cup of water. Cook for 20 min or until the rice is done. Add the vegetables, onions , raisins and cashewnuts to rice and mix well.