Lone Star Rice

1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 cup uncooked long grain rice
1/2 cup tomatoes with green chiles
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups water
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

In a skillet saute onion and green pepper in oil for about 2 minutes. Add rice and stir until coated with oil. Add tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, salt, garlic powder, and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered about 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Add cilantro if desired.