Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water to release some of the excess starch.

Step 2

Heat a medium sauce pot over medium heat. Add the oil. When the oil is warm, add the diced onion, garlic, rinsed rice, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until the onion starts to turn translucent.

Step 3

Add the water, salt, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and cook, covered, until the water is fully absorbed, about 20 minutes.

Step 4

Remove the lid. Fluff the rice with a fork. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lime juice, zest, and cilantro. Taste for seasoning. Serve hot with sliced jalapeño pepper and a few stems of cilantro as a garnish, if desired.