27/08/2024
Jollof Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
• 1 can (400g) of crushed tomatoes or 3 fresh tomatoes, blended
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 cups mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and green beans, optional)
• Protein of choice (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp, cooked separately and added later)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. Make the Base: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Tomato Base: Stir in the tomato paste, and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Then, add the crushed tomatoes or blended fresh tomatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce reduces and the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture.
5. Season: Add thyme, curry powder, paprika, bay leaf, chopped scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Cook the Rice: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed rice and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom.
7. Add Vegetables and Protein: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the mixed vegetables (if using) and your pre-cooked protein of choice. Stir gently to combine.
8. Finish: Once the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the bay leaf. Fluff the rice with a fork, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Serve: Jollof rice is best served hot, often accompanied by fried plantains, salad, or coleslaw. Enjoy!