Caliente Rice

Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced green pepper and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.

Add the chopped tomato to the pan and stir to combine with the green pepper. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the tomato begins to break down.

Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir well to coat the grains with the oil and vegetable mixture. Toast the rice for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Season the mixture with garlic powder and salt, stirring to distribute the spices evenly throughout the rice and vegetables.

Pour in the water and stir once to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a full boil over high heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan tightly with a lid. Allow the rice to simmer undisturbed until all the liquid is absorbed.

Remove the pan from heat and let the rice rest, still covered, for 5 minutes to allow the grains to finish steaming and firm up.

Uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or garlic powder if desired, then serve hot.