Grind the ingredients under "for grinding" into a smooth paste and set aside.
Heat ghee in a saucepan. Briefly fry the whole spices. Splutter the cumin.
Add in the ground paste and saute till raw smell is gone.
Add the rice and toss well, and saute for few minutes till crisp.
Add in the coconut milk and water along with sufficient salt and keep on high flame till boiling.
Keep the flame on the lowest, close the lid and cook till the rice is done.
Sprinkle in the garam masala and give it a good stir. Serve warm.