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Flavorful Nigerian Jollof Rice Recipe Easy Party Meal for Beginners

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A rich and smoky Nigerian Jollof rice recipe that is easy to prepare, perfect for parties and family gatherings. This flavorful dish combines fresh tomatoes, peppers, and spices to create a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 400g) long-grain parboiled rice
  • 4 medium fresh tomatoes, blended (or 1 can of plum tomatoes, 14 oz/400g)
  • 2 medium red bell peppers, blended
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped (half for blending, half for sautéing)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
  • 3 cups (720ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil recommended)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 whole scotch bonnet pepper (whole or chopped, adjust to taste; substitute with jalapeño for milder heat)
  • Salt to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional protein additions: cooked chicken, shrimp, or fried plantains (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a colander until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside for 10 minutes.
  2. In a blender, combine 4 fresh tomatoes, 2 red bell peppers, and half of the chopped onion. Blend until smooth. If using canned tomatoes, substitute with one 14-ounce can of plum tomatoes.
  3. Heat ½ cup vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the remaining half of the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, stirring often.
  4. Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to reduce acidity and bring out sweetness.
  5. Add the blended tomato and pepper mixture, 2 bay leaves, thyme, and whole scotch bonnet pepper. Season with salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Simmer on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and oil separates.
  6. Stir in the rinsed rice, coating every grain with the sauce. Pour in 3 cups broth, stir gently, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes without opening the lid.
  8. After 25 minutes, check if the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. If not, cover and simmer an additional 5-10 minutes. Remove bay leaves and scotch bonnet pepper. Fluff rice gently with a fork.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. Add cayenne or hot sauce for extra heat if desired.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with optional protein or fried plantains.

Notes

Rinsing the rice well prevents mushiness. Simmer the tomato sauce until oil separates for best flavor. Keep the lid closed during simmering to trap steam and cook rice evenly. For smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika. Leftovers taste better the next day. Reheat gently with a splash of water to keep moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: Nigerian Jollof rice, Jollof rice recipe, easy party meal, Nigerian cuisine, spicy rice, tomato rice, beginner recipe

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/flavorful-nigerian-jollof-rice-recipe-easy-party-meal-for-beginners/