Spiced Meatballs With Golden Raisin–Pistachio Pilaf

Name: Spiced Meatballs With Golden Raisin–Pistachio Pilaf
Ingredients: 1 large egg; 6 garlic cloves, 3 finely grated, 3 smashed; 1 lb. ground beef; ¾ cup panko; 1 tsp. ground cumin; ¾ cup crumbled feta, plus more for serving; 2¼ tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt, divided; 2 tsp. smoked paprika, divided; 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; 1 3-long cinnamon stick; 1 whole green cardamom pod, crushed; 1½ cups long-grain rice; ½ cup coarsely chopped salted roasted pistachios, plus more for serving; ½ cup golden raisins, plus more for serving; Mint leaves (for serving; optional)