Tasty Jollof Rice

Jollof Rice is a beloved West African dish, renowned for its rich, tomato-flavored sauce, vibrant orange hue, and smoky aroma. It is composed of fluffy, red-orange rice that is cooked with a combination of vegetables, which may include peas, peppers, carrots, cabbage, or eggplant, and is often accompanied by meat such as goat, chicken, or beef.

Ingredients(For 6 Servings)

For the Tomato Base

✅ 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice

✅ 1 medium onion

✅ 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers

✅ 4 large ripe tomatoes

✅ 2 red bell peppers

For Cooking

✅ 1/4 cup vegetable oil

✅ 2 tbsp tomato paste

✅ 1 bay leaf

✅ 1 tablesoopns paprika

✅ 2-3 garlic cloves, minced

✅ 1 tablesoonps thyme

✅ 1 tsp curry powder

✅ 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable stock

✅ Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Additions

✅ Protein: chicken, goat, or beef

✅ Vegetables: diced carrots, peas, or green beans

Instructions

Step 1

First, prepare the Tomato Base for that Blend the tomatoes, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet, and half the onion until smooth.

Step 2

Then, Sauté and Build Flavor. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Dice the remaining half onion and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 3-5 minutes until it darkens and becomes aromatic.

Step 3

Add the Blended Mixture. Pour the blended tomato base into the pot and stir. Add thyme, curry powder, paprika, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for around 20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil rises to the surface.

Step 4

Stir the rinsed rice into the cooked sauce, ensuring every grain is coated. Add enough stock to cover the rice by about 1 inch. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook for around 30 minutes without opening the lid.

Step 5

Create the Smoky "Party Rice" Layer. For a smoky aroma, leave the pot on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to toast the bottom layer slightly.

Step 6

Fluff the rice with a fork. Mix in optional proteins or vegetables if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

If you try this Delicious Jollof Rice recipe, please leave me a comment and let me know! I always love to hear your thoughts.