Jollof rice is a popular West African dish known for its flavorful and aromatic rice cooked in a tomato-based sauce. Here's a recipe for Jollof rice:
Ingredients:
2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
3 medium-sized tomatoes, blended or 1 can of diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 scotch bonnet pepper or habanero pepper, chopped (optional for heat)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
Add the minced garlic, chopped red and green bell peppers, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they soften.
Add the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes to enhance its flavor and reduce the raw taste.
Pour in the blended tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the thyme, curry powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried basil, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper if using. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Add the parboiled rice to the pot and stir until the rice is well coated with the tomato mixture.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the water. Add salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and allow the rice to simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid has been absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffier.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, and remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the Jollof rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Jollof rice is often served with a side of fried plantains, coleslaw, or a protein of your choice, such as grilled chicken or fried fish. Enjoy your delicious homemade Jollof rice!