Authentic Jollof Rice Recipe – A Flavorful West African Classic

Introduction:  
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Jollof Rice. This iconic West African dish is more than just rice—it’s a cultural symbol, a party favorite, and a weeknight staple. With its smoky tomato base, vibrant color, and irresistible aroma, Jollof Rice has captured hearts across the world.  

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:  
- Quick & easy: Ready in under an hour.  
- Versatile: Pair with chicken, beef, fish, or keep it vegetarian.  
- Authentic flavor: Balanced spices and the signature smoky undertone.  

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

- Long-grain parboiled rice — 400 g (2 cups)  
- Ripe tomatoes (or canned) — 400 g (4 large / 14 oz can)  
- Red bell pepper — 150 g (1 medium)  
- Scotch bonnet chili — 10 g (1 small)  
- Onion — 150 g (1 medium)  
- Tomato paste — 45 g (3 tbsp)  
- Vegetable oil — 45–60 ml (3–4 tbsp)  
- Chicken or vegetable stock — 500–750 ml (2–3 cups)  
- Thyme (dried) — 1 g (1 tsp)  
- Curry powder — 1 g (1 tsp)  
- Bay leaves — 2 leaves  
- Smoked paprika — 1 g (1 tsp)  
- Salt — 5–10 g (1–2 tsp)  
- Black pepper — 1 g (½ tsp)  

🥘 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Blend the base: Combine tomatoes, bell pepper, scotch bonnet, and half the onion in a blender until smooth.  
2. Cook the aromatics: Heat oil in a pot, sauté the remaining onion, then stir in tomato paste. Cook until it darkens.  
3. Build the sauce: Add the blended mixture, thyme, curry powder, bay leaves, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until reduced.  
4. Add rice & stock: Pour in hot stock, then add washed parboiled rice. Stir well to combine.  
5. Steam gently: Cover tightly with foil or lid. Cook on low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.  
6. Finish: Remove bay leaves, fluff rice, and serve hot with grilled chicken, fish, or fried plantains.  

 Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use parboiled rice to avoid mushiness.  
- Cook the tomato base until reduced—this prevents a raw tomato taste.  
- Cover tightly with foil to trap steam and ensure fluffy rice.  
- Adjust chili heat based on preference; Scotch bonnet adds authentic spice.  
- For smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or char the tomato base slightly.  
 

🍽 Nutritional Information (per serving, ~1 cup)
- Calories: ~320 kcal  
- Carbohydrates: 55 g  
- Protein: 6 g  
- Fat: 8 g  
- Fiber: 4 g  
- Sodium: ~450 mg