Jollof Rice Recipe: A Spicy and Savory Nigerian Classic

Welcome to Love With Recipes, where we explore the most delectable dishes from around the world. Today, we’re diving into the heart of West African cuisine with a dish beloved across Nigeria: Jollof Rice. This spicy and flavorful rice dish, often enriched with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and optional protein, is a staple for festive occasions or everyday meals. Whether you’re new to Jollof or a seasoned fan, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable dining experience.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Long-grain rice	2 cups	Rinse thoroughly to remove excess starch.
Fresh tomatoes	4 large	Blend for a smooth tomato base.
Bell peppers (red)	2 medium	Adds sweetness and enhances flavor.
Scotch bonnet pepper	1-2	Adjust to your spice preference.
Onions	2 large	One for blending, one for sautéing.
Tomato paste	3 tablespoons	Intensifies the tomato flavor.
Meat (optional)	500g	Chicken, beef, or goat meat work well.
Chicken stock	2 cups	Enhances the richness of the dish.
Vegetable oil	1/4 cup	For sautéing.
Thyme	1 teaspoon	Adds a subtle herbal aroma.
Curry powder	1 teaspoon	Brings a warm and earthy note.
Bay leaves	2	Infuses the rice with additional depth.
Garlic cloves	3	Minced for a robust flavor.
Ginger	1-inch piece	Grated for a hint of heat and zest.
Salt	To taste	Balances the flavors.
Water	As needed	For cooking the rice.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Percentage Daily Value (%)
Calories	300 kcal	15%
Protein	6 g	12%
Carbohydrates	45 g	15%
Fat	8 g	12%
Fiber	3 g	12%
Vitamin A	30%	–
Vitamin C	40%	–
Iron	10%	–
Sodium	400 mg	17%

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation

Wash and rinse the rice: Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set aside.
Blend the tomato base: In a blender, combine the fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet, one onion, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.

2. Prepare the Meat (Optional)

If using meat, season with salt, thyme, and curry powder.
Boil until tender, then fry or grill for extra flavor. Reserve the stock.

3. Cook the Sauce

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Dice the second onion and sauté until golden brown.
Add the tomato paste and fry for about 5 minutes to reduce its acidity.
Stir in the blended tomato mixture and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate.

4. Add Seasonings

Add thyme, curry powder, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt to the sauce.
Pour in the chicken stock and mix well.

5. Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat each grain in the sauce.
Add water or additional stock as needed to cover the rice.
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

6. Final Touches

Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the bay leaves.
Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with your choice of vegetables, fried plantains, or a side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jollof Rice is not just food; it’s a cultural experience. Its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and inviting aroma will bring warmth to any table. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Perfect Jollof Rice

Use long-grain rice: Basmati or parboiled rice work best for achieving the fluffy texture.
Control the spice: Adjust the Scotch bonnet to your heat tolerance.
Avoid burning: Stir occasionally but avoid over-stirring to keep the grains intact.
Layer the flavors: Using stock instead of water enhances the richness of the dish.

Let’s make memories with this timeless recipe, perfect for sharing with loved ones. For more delightful recipes, visit us again at Love With Recipes!