Place the onion and garlic in a microwave-safe dish.
Microwave the onion and garlic for 2 minutes, to soften the onion and mellow the flavors.
Add the onion, garlic, rice, broth, and tomato paste to the rice cooker. Add salt if desired. Stir until combined.
Cook in the rice cooker until the broth has been absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
