Place the rice in a sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Shake sieve to remove excess water from rice. 

Add rinsed rice and 8 cups of water to a large saucepan. Stir in onion, salt, turmeric (if desired, use annatto powder), paprika, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover pan, and simmer.

After cooking for 10 minutes, gently stir the peas into rice. Cover.  Cook until all the water is evaporated and the rice is tender, about 15 minutes. Serve garnished with pimento.