Nigeria Jollof Rice Recipe

 

Nigeria Jollof Rice. 

  

Nigeria is a country with a rich and diverse culinary heritage, and one of its most popular dishes is jollof rice. Jollof rice, also known as "party rice," is a staple at many Nigerian celebrations and is enjoyed by millions of people around the world.

Jollof rice is a one-pot dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. The dish is often cooked with chicken or beef, but it can also be made with fish or vegetables for a vegetarian option. The ingredients are simmered together in a pot until the rice is fully cooked and infused with the flavorful tomato sauce.

While jollof rice is popular in many West African countries, Nigeria's version is widely regarded as the best. Nigerian jollof rice is known for its rich, smoky flavour and its bright, vibrant colour. It is often spicier than other versions, with a unique blend of herbs and spices that give it a distinct taste.

One of the keys to making great Nigerian jollof rice is to use the right type of rice. Long-grain rice is the preferred choice, as it has a firm texture and doesn't stick together when cooked. Nigerian cooks also prefer to use aged rice, which has a nuttier flavour and is less likely to turn mushy when cooked.

Another important element of Nigerian jollof rice is the tomato sauce. Nigerian cooks often use a combination of fresh and canned tomatoes to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The sauce is spiced with a mix of traditional herbs and spices, including bay leaves, thyme, and curry powder.

One of the things that make Nigerian jollof rice so special is the cooking method. The rice is cooked slowly over low heat, allowing it to absorb all of the flavours of the tomato sauce. The result is a rich, flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Nigerian jollof rice is often served with fried plantains, coleslaw, or a salad. It is also a popular street food, sold by vendors in markets and on street corners. Many Nigerian families have their own secret jollof rice recipe, passed down through generations and guarded fiercely.

In recent years, Nigerian jollof rice has gained global recognition, with chefs and foodies around the world singing its praises. It has even become the subject of a friendly culinary rivalry between Nigeria and other West African countries, with each claiming to have the best version of the dish.

In conclusion, Nigerian jollof rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that is beloved by millions of people around the world. Its rich tomato sauce, aromatic herbs, and tender rice make it a true culinary delight. Whether enjoyed at a party or as a comforting meal at home, Nigerian jollof rice is a true taste of Nigeria's culinary heritage.

Ingredients: 

1. cup long-grain rice. 

2. 3 medium tomatoes (or 1/2 can of crushed tomatoes)

3.1 small onion 

4.1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper 

5. 1/2 bell pepper (red or green)

6.2 garlic cloves 

7.1 teaspoon grated ginger 

8.1 tablespoon tomato paste 

9. 1 1/2 cups chicken or beef stock 

10. 2 bay leaves 

11.1/2 teaspoon thyme 

12.1/2 teaspoon curry powder 

13. 1/2 teaspoon salt 

14. 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 

15. 1/2 pound chicken or beef (optional)

16. 2 seasoning cubes. 

Procedure 

. Wash your rice in hot water and set it aside to drain. 

. Wash chicken or beef(if using) and add into a pot. Throw in some chopped onions, bay leaves, thyme, curry powder, salt and seasoning cube and stir well. Allow to simmer for 2 minutes, then add water and allow to cook. 

. Blend the tomatoes, onion, scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, bell pepper, garlic and ginger in a blender or food processor until smooth

. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your diced onion and allow to fry for 2 minutes, then add tomato paste and fry for 3 minutes. After 3 minutes pour in your tomato mixture and cook till the vegetable oil floats to the top. Then add salt and seasoning cube to taste. 

. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the tomato mixture. 

. Pour in the chicken or beef stock and stir to combine. Make sure the meat stock is enough to cook the rice, if not add water and adjust the seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. 

. Simmer the rice for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. 

. Once the rice is cooked remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes to allow the steam to distribute evenly and flavours to meld. 

. While waiting for your rice to cool, fry your beef or chicken in hot oil till golden brown. 

. Remove the bay leaves and fluff the rice with a fork. 

. Serve the jello rice hot, garnished with sliced tomatoes or chopped scallions, if desired. 

Enjoy your delicious and flavourful Nigerian jello rice!