How To Prepare Nigerian Jollof

To prepare an unbeatable Nigerian Jollof Rice, here's a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 teaspoons thyme

- 2 teaspoons curry powder

- 2 teaspoons paprika

- 1 teaspoon white or black pepper

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes

- 1 can (400g) tomato sauce or 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- Salt to taste

- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)

- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans) - optional

- 1 bay leaf

- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are softened.

3. Add the thyme, curry powder, paprika, white or black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine and let the spices toast for about a minute to release their flavors.

4. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce or paste. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.

5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add salt to taste. If you like it spicy, you can add a scotch bonnet pepper whole or chopped (remember to remove the seeds if you prefer less heat).

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the parboiled rice, mixed vegetables (if using), and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid. Avoid stirring the rice too much during this process to prevent it from becoming mushy.

8. After the rice is cooked, remove the scotch bonnet pepper and bay leaf. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.

Your unbeatable Nigerian Jollof Rice is now ready to be served! It pairs well with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or any protein of your choice. Enjoy!