Riz créole (Creole rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then drain it.
2. Blend the tomatoes, onion and garlic to a smooth purée.
3. Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the rice for 2 minutes over medium heat.
4. Add the tomato purée, the thyme and the whole pepper, then stir for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the hot water, add salt, cover and cook over low heat for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
6. Leave to rest for 5 minutes off the heat, remove the thyme and the pepper, then fluff with a fork before serving.