Authentic Spanish Rice

1 c. white rice
2 tsp. oil
1 c. water
1 c. fresh or canned tomatoes pureed
1 med. onion, finely diced
1/2 med. bell pepper (green or red), diced
2 cloves of garlic, mashed
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cumin

Add 2 tsp. oil to a large skillet and toast rice until it is a nice golden brown. Add onion and bell pepper and saute. Bring temperature to a med-high and add water and spices, bring to a full boil, reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Then turn off the heat and let sit for 15 minutes. Do not uncover the skillet! The steam helps cook the rice. Uncover after 15 minutes and serve as a side dish to tacos, enchiladas or fajitas.