Nigerian Coconut Rice is a delightful fusion of aromatic rice cooked in coconut milk and rich broth, creating a perfect balance of savory and subtle tropical flavors. This recipe has been refined over the years to achieve the perfect blend of traditional taste with modern cooking techniques.
The dish combines tender rice with perfectly seasoned chicken, shrimp, and colorful bell peppers, making it both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. The careful balance of coconut milk and seasoned broth creates a depth of flavor that sets it apart from other coconut rice variations.
Ingredients
- 3 cups long-grain or basmati rice
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or turkey wings
- 1 pound shrimp, cleaned and deveined
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons crayfish powder (optional)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
- 1 habanero pepper, minced (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt to taste
- 2 teaspoons bouillon powder
Steps to Follow
- Step 1: Season chicken with onion, garlic, ginger, thyme, curry powder, and salt. Cook until tender, then separate meat from stock.
- Step 2: Rinse rice thoroughly until water runs clear.
- Step 3: Heat coconut oil in a large pot, sauté onions until translucent.
- Step 4: Add crayfish powder and peppers, cook for 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock, bring to boil.
- Step 6: Add rice, reduce heat, cover and cook for 20 minutes.
- Step 7: Season and cook shrimp separately until pink.
- Step 8: Stir-fry bell peppers until tender-crisp.
- Step 9: Combine rice with shrimp, chicken, and peppers.
Additional Instructions
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 8-10 people
- Storage: Keeps for 3-4 days in refrigerator
- Reheating: Add splash of water when reheating
- Variation: Can substitute chicken with other proteins
- Tip: Use full-fat canned coconut milk for best results
- Note: Crayfish powder can be omitted if unavailable
General Nutritional Values
- Calories: 421 kcal per serving
- Protein: 7.7g
- Carbohydrates: 54.9g
- Fat: 19.6g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Sodium: 208.5mg
