Spanish Rice

Ingredients:
3 T shortening
1/2 C onion, sliced
1 (14 oz) can whole tomatoes
1 tsp black pepper
2 tsp salt
1 1/2 C rice
1/2 C bell pepper, sliced
1 med clove garlic, crushed or minced
3 C water

Directions:
Wash rice in cold water, drain, repeat this washing three times, drain thoroughly. Melt shortening in large skillet. Add rice and brown. When rice is golden brown, reduce heat and add onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, garlic and pepper. Mix well and add 1 1/2 C warm water. Add salt. Cover and let simmer until almost dry. Add remaining water, cold, a little at a time, cooking over low heat until fluffy. This is the secret to fluffy rice.