Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

In a medium pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Sprinkle in the salt, oregano, black pepper, and bay leaf, stirring to combine.

Pour in the water, stir briefly, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.

Discard the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, transfer to a serving dish, and enjoy.