Rice with Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Add the grated carrot and cook for 6 minutes, stirring, until tender and fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook for 12 minutes, breaking it apart, until fully browned and most of the moisture has evaporated.
Season with salt, black pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. Add the chopped garlic and cook for 4 minutes, stirring constantly.
Add the rinsed rice and cook for 4 minutes, stirring, to lightly toast the rice and coat it with flavor.
Pour in the water or broth and add the bay leaves. Stir gently to combine.
Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves, fluff with a fork, and serve warm.