Minted Rice

Preparation : Wash the rice. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the bay leaf and simmer it, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. (This will flavor the oil.) Remove from heat. Carefully add the water to avoid splatters. Bring to a boil, and then stir in the rice. When the water boils again, stir, reduce the heat, cover the pan, and simmer gently for 45 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in the mint. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving, and remove the bay leaf.