1. Fry cashewnuts and raisins in ghee. Keep aside.
2. Boil milk in a heavy vessel with 2 to 3 cups of water.
3. Take half the milk in separate vessel.
4. Add washed rice to the boiling milk and cook for 5 to 10 minutes stirring once in a while.
5. Add rest of the milk gradually, stirring constantly.
6. When the rice is cooked till soft and mashed well, add sugar and stir till it is dissolved.
7. Remove from flame and add cardamom powder, cashewnuts and raisins.

For good taste add ghee to payasam, mix well and serve hot.