Introduction
Jollof Rice is a beloved dish across West Africa, particularly in Nigeria. Known for its rich, smoky flavor and vibrant red color, it's often served at parties, weddings, and family gatherings. The dish combines rice with a tomato-based sauce and spices, making it a delicious one-pot meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 4 medium tomatoes (blended)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Bay leaves (optional)
- Grilled chicken or beef (optional)
- Fresh salad or fried plantains
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
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Make the Base:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
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Add Tomatoes:
- Add blended tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens and reduces.
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Season the Sauce:
- Add thyme, curry powder, salt, and chopped bell pepper to the tomato mixture. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
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Cook the Rice:
- Stir in the rinsed rice and ensure it’s well coated with the tomato sauce. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add bay leaves if using.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
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Fluff and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
- Serve Jollof Rice hot with grilled meat, a fresh salad, or fried plantains.
Health Considerations
- Monitor sodium intake by adjusting the amount of salt and using low-sodium broth if needed.
- Serve with protein-rich sides to balance the meal.
Tips
- For added smokiness, you can cook the rice in a pot over an open flame for a few minutes before adding the broth.
- Jollof Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it great for meal prep!
