Jollof Rice

🌶️ Jollof Rice Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1 large onion (divided in half)

• 3 large tomatoes (chopped)

• 2 red bell peppers

• 1 scotch bonnet (or habanero, optional for heat)

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 cups chicken stock

• 2 teaspoons curry powder

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

• Salt and seasoning cubes to taste

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)

• Fried plantains and grilled chicken (for serving – optional but recommended)
  

👩🏾‍🍳 Directions

1. Blend the Base: Combine tomatoes, red bell peppers, scotch bonnet, and half the onion in a blender. Blend until smooth.

2. Fry the Sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot. Add the remaining chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the tomato paste and fry for about 3 minutes.

3. Add the Blend: Pour in the blended pepper mixture and cook on medium heat for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate.

4. Season It: Add curry powder, thyme, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and seasoning cubes. Stir well.

5. Add Rice and Stock: Pour in the washed rice, stir to coat it in the sauce, then add the chicken stock. Cover and cook on low heat for 25–30 minutes.

6. Steam and Finish: Once the rice is almost cooked, add mixed vegetables (if using). Stir gently, cover with foil or parchment paper, and steam for another 5 minutes until fluffy.

7. Serve Hot: Fluff with a fork and serve with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or salad.