Add 2½ cups water, oil, and bay leaf to heavy 4-quart saucepan with a lid; cover and bring to a boil over high heat.
Add rice and a pinch of salt; stir continuously until water returns to a boil. Reduce heat to low; top with aluminum foil, cover with lid, pressing firmly, and cook 30 minutes.
With a wooden spoon, gently fold rice over from the bottom of the pot to fluff. Remove bay leaf and serve hot.
Recipe by Louisiana Cookin' at https://louisianacookin.com/shrimp-creole-2/