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Best Jollof Rice Recipe

Jollof Rice Recipe

Jollof Rice is a vibrant and flavorful West African dish that combines rice with a rich, spicy tomato sauce. This Best Jollof Rice Recipe teaches you how to create the perfect version of this classic dish, with fluffy rice infused with savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Whether you're making Nigerian, Ghanaian, or Senegalese-style Jollof, this easy recipe is perfect for family meals or special occasions. Pair it with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or beef for a complete, hearty meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine West African
Servings 6 People
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Blender or food processor
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
  • 4 large tomatoes
  • 1 large red bell pepper
  • 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers
  • 1 medium onion
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetabe broth
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • salt to taste
  • cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef (for added protein) Optional

Instructions
 

  • 1. Blend the Tomato Sauce
    In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatoes, red bell pepper, Scotch bonnet pepper, half of the onion, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth and set aside.
    2. Prepare the Jollof Base
    Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Finely chop the remaining half of the onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the paste to deepen in color.
    3. Cook the Tomato Sauce
    Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate from the sauce. Add the thyme, bay leaf, paprika, curry powder, and ground white pepper. Season with salt to taste.
    4. Add the Rice and Broth
    Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice in the sauce. Pour in the broth, stir again, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
    5. Fluff and Serve
    Remove the bay leaf and fluff the Jollof Rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning if necessary. For extra flavor, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef at this stage. Serve hot with fried plantains, grilled meat, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder Jollof Rice, use fewer Scotch bonnet peppers or replace them with milder chili peppers.
  • Protein Options: Jollof Rice can be served on its own, but for a more complete meal, add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef.
  • Rice Type: Parboiled rice works best for this recipe because it stays firm and doesn’t become mushy during cooking.
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