Nigerian Jollof rice is a legendary West African dish that has become synonymous with celebrations and parties across Nigeria. This smoky, flavorful one-pot rice dish is cooked in a rich tomato sauce with aromatic spices and represents the pinnacle of Nigerian cuisine.
While variations exist across West Africa, Nigerian Jollof rice is distinguished by its vibrant red color, distinct smoky flavor, and perfectly separate grains. No Nigerian celebration is complete without this iconic dish taking center stage.
Ingredients
- 5 cups easy cook rice or golden sella basmati rice
- 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers
- 3 large bell peppers
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 2 large onions (1 brown/red + 1 red), sliced
- 2 fresh tomatoes, sliced
- 150g tomato puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1.5 tablespoons curry powder
- 1.5 tablespoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 5 stock cubes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3.5 cups water
- Salt to taste
Steps to Follow
- Step 1: Blend scotch bonnet, bell peppers, tomatoes and red onion until smooth. Set aside.
- Step 2: Wash rice thoroughly and set aside (no parboiling needed).
- Step 3: Heat oil in pot, add chopped onions and tomato puree. Fry for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Step 4: Add blended pepper mixture, stock cubes, curry powder, thyme and white pepper. Fry for 5-8 minutes.
- Step 5: Add chicken broth and water, bring to boil. Add rice, ensuring liquid barely covers rice.
- Step 6: Cover with foil and lid, cook on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Step 7: Add sliced onions and tomatoes, cover and cook 5 more minutes.
- Step 8: Allow bottom to burn slightly for signature smoky flavor.
Additional Instructions
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 8 people
- Use aluminum pot for best results and authentic smoky flavor
- Reduce scotch bonnet amount for less heat
- Store leftovers in fridge up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months
- Serve with fried plantains, chicken wings, or coleslaw
General Nutritional Values
- Approx. Calories: 450 kcal per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fat: 12g
