Description
If you’re looking for a bold and flavorful dish to elevate your meal rotation, this Authentic West African Jollof Rice is a must-try. A beloved staple across West Africa, this tomato-rich rice dish is simmered to perfection with peppers, onions, spices, and a hint of smoky heat. It’s the perfect main or side dish for festive gatherings, weeknight dinners, or cultural food explorations. Whether you’re on the hunt for an easy dinner, quick meal prep idea, or a global spin on rice recipes, this one will have you hooked bite after bite.
Ingredients
2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
1 ½ cups crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 red bell peppers
1 scotch bonnet pepper
1 large onion (divided for sauce and frying)
3 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon fresh ginger
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 seasoning cubes
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
⅓ cup neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable)
Instructions
1. Blend red bell peppers, scotch bonnet, half the onion, garlic, ginger, and crushed tomatoes until smooth.
2. In a large pot, heat oil and sauté the remaining chopped onion until golden.
3. Add tomato paste and fry for a few minutes, then add the blended mixture.
4. Cook sauce on medium heat for 20–30 minutes until it thickens and oil separates.
5. Stir in thyme, bay leaves, seasoning cubes, and salt.
6. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Add washed rice to the pot and stir to combine well.
8. Cover with a tight lid and cook on low for 30–35 minutes without stirring.
9. Once rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, fluff gently with a fork.
10. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use parboiled long-grain rice to avoid sogginess or clumping.
Adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the scotch bonnet pepper.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: West African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: jollof rice, African recipes, spicy rice, easy dinner, global dish