Put rice in a fine-mesh sieve, and rinse well under running water in sink. You may also pour rice into a saucepan, add water, and swish the rice around to rinse. Pour out the cloudy water, and repeat until water is mostly clear.
Place the rinsed rice back into the saucepan. Add coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir to combine. Cook over medium-high heat to bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook 20 minutes. Stir well, cover again, and cook an additional 15-20 minutes. Nearly all of the liquid should be absorbed.
While rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add onions, and stir to coat. Cook 20 minutes or until onions are slightly blackened and crispy, stirring frequently. Add cooked peas and cashews to rice, and stir. Place a mound of rice on each serving plate, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Top with onions.
Yield: 6 (serving size: 1 cup)