Malagasy Riz aux Pois - Rice & Veggie Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, crush garlic cloves and minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (or 1 small ripe tomato, finely diced)
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional, for color)
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
• 1 ½ cups (300g) white long grain rice , rinsed until water runs clear (optional, see notes)
• 2 ½ cups (600ml) hot vegetable or chicken stock (or water with ½ bouillon cube)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
• 1 cup (150g) green peas (fresh, frozen, or canned – see instructions for timing)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for finishing)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)