Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the cilantro. Add the oil to a medium pot, and heat to medium high.
Stir in the onions and garlic, and sautée for 5 minutes.
Add the rice, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir for a couple of minutes to toast the rice.
Add the water, and let the mixture come to a low boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat, and let sit for 10 more minutes. Top with cilantro, and the rice is ready to serve.