Nigerian Jollof Rice Recipe
Nigerian Jollof Rice is a beloved West African dish renowned for its rich flavors and vibrant color. This dish melds perfectly cooked long-grain parboiled rice with a spicy tomato-based sauce that is infused with a symphony of herbs and spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, this iconic dish is a must-try for anyone exploring Nigerian cuisine.
Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert
Ingredients
- 400 grams long-grain parboiled rice
- 60 ml vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 480 ml tomato puree
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 720 ml chicken broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 240 grams peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato puree, thyme, curry powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the rice, carrots, and peas. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.
Tips
- For a smoky flavor, cook the tomato puree mixture for a longer period before adding the rice.
- Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- For added complexity, consider adding a bay leaf to the pot while simmering the rice.
- Ensure the pot is properly covered to allow the rice to steam and cook evenly.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 150 kcal (628 kJ) | 450 kcal (1884 kJ) |
| Fat | 4.5 grams | 13.5 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1 grams | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams | 75 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams | 9 grams |
| Proteins | 3 grams | 9 grams |
| Salt | 0.5 grams | 1.5 grams |
