Description
This Jollof Rice recipe is a flavorful and aromatic West African classic. It features rice cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with spices and herbs, creating a delicious one-pot meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2–3 tomatoes, blended or pureed
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, or to taste (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Bay leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly.
- Add the blended tomatoes and scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil starts to separate.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth and water. Add the thyme, curry powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice to the pot. Stir gently to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. Add bay leaves if desired.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid stirring too much to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Let it steam for another 5 minutes with the lid on.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier Jollof Rice, leave the seeds in the scotch bonnet pepper.
- You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers towards the end of the cooking process.
- Serve with your favorite protein like chicken, fish, or beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: West African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg