Sweat aromatics: Warm 1 tablespoons olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 0.5 onion, finely diced and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add 2 garlic cloves, minced and 0.5 teaspoons dried thyme, cook 1 minute more.
Toast rice: Add 1.5 cups long grain white rice and stir to coat in the oil. Toast for 2 minutes until the grains turn slightly opaque.
Add liquid: Add 2.8 cups vegetable stock or water and 1 teaspoons kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to the lowest possible simmer and cover tight.
Cook and rest: Cook covered, undisturbed, for 18 minutes. Remove from heat, leave lid on for 5 more minutes. Fluff with a fork.