Rinse 1 cup white rice until the water runs mostly clear
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium heat
Add the rice and cook, stirring often, until lightly golden
Add 1/4 cup finely chopped onion and 1 minced garlic clove
Cook for 1 minute
Stir in 1/2 cup tomato sauce
Add 1 3/4 cups chicken broth or water
Add 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Add 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Bring to a boil
Reduce heat to low and cover
Simmer for 18 to 20 minutes
Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes
Fluff with a fork
Stir in chopped cilantro if desired