Got any questions? Ask away! I’m happy to help. If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you’ll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don’t forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I’ll be sure to share! Thanks! — Mike H. Jollof rice is a West African rice dish made with hot chili peppers along with tomatoes, African curry powder and a variety of herbs and spices to achieve fluffy, spicy rice fit to serve any occasion. It’s one of the most popular African recipes outside of Africa, and often served in African homes. It is considered a recipe of West Africa, though you will find variations of ingredients and cooking preparations from region to region and from cook to cook. There’s even a local rivalry about which version is better, Nigerian jollof rice or Ghanaian jollof rice. This version is truer to the Nigerian style, though both are delicious. As long as they’re spicy! Cook the onion and garlic. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large pot to medium-high heat and add the onion. Cook for 5 minutes to soften. Add the garlic and tomato paste and stir. Cook 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Simmer the puree. Add the tomato-pepper puree and stir. Cook for 1 minute, stirring, then reduce the heat to medium heat and cook for 15 minutes to let the flavors develop. The sauce will reduce and deepen in color. Add stock and seasonings. Add chicken stock, curry powder, thyme and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes. Add the rice. Add rice and bay leaves and mix well. Reduce heat and cover the pot. Simmer on low until the liquid is absorbed and the Jollof rice is cooked to your liking, about 20 - 30 minutes. You may need a bit longer. Add in water or chicken stock if needed for more moisture. It should be light and fluffy (unless you prefer wetter rice). Prep for serving. Remove from heat and remove the lid. Let sit for 5 minutes and fluff the rice with a fork or wooden spoon, as desired. Serve it up!! Boom! Done! Jollof rice is ready to serve! It looks and smells wonderful, doesn’t it? I love this recipe. It’s a great side dish that I think you are going to love.
Flavors of Africa: Discover Authentic Family Recipes from All Over the Continent, by Evi Aki (affiliate link, my friends)!
