Description
Jollof Rice is a vibrant one-pot West African dish made with long-grain rice simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Packed with bold flavors and a hint of spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 4 large tomatoes
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 onion (divided: 1/2 for blending, 1/2 for frying)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Base:
- Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, ½ onion, garlic, and scotch bonnet (if using) into a smooth paste.
- Fry the Tomato Paste:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Dice the remaining ½ onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Cook the Tomato Sauce:
- Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot. Add thyme, curry powder, smoked paprika, and a bay leaf. Cook until the sauce reduces and thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Rice and Stock:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly and add it to the tomato sauce. Stir well to coat the rice in the sauce.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve:
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Pair with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or a side salad.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the scotch bonnet pepper.
- For added flavor, mix in cooked shrimp, chicken, or vegetables during the final stages of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: ~450 mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg