Prepare the grilled spice mix by combining 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper.
In a pot, add the red bell pepper, ginger, and garlic with 1 cup of water. Blend until smooth.
Add the blended mixture, soaked basmati rice, chopped onion, 2 tablespoons tomato sauce, and 1 tablespoon of the grilled spice mix to a pot.
Pour in 1 ½ cups of water and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
