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Easy Nigerian Jollof Rice Recipe for Beginners served with fried chicken

Easy Nigerian Jollof Rice Recipe for Beginners

This easy Nigerian Jollof Rice recipe is perfect for beginners who want to make a flavorful, authentic, and foolproof pot of Jollof rice at home. Made with rice, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and aromatic spices, this one-pot Nigerian classic is rich, delicious, and perfect for family dinners, meal prep, parties, and special occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Nigeria
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tomato Base
  • 5 medium tomatoes
  • 2 red bell peppers tatashe
  • 2 Scotch bonnet peppers ata rodo
  • 1 large onion
  • For Cooking
  • 4 cups long-grain parboiled rice
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion sliced
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 seasoning cubes
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 cups chicken stock or water
  • 2 bay leaves optional

Method
 

  1. Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs mostly clear. Set aside.
  2. Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers, and onion until smooth.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot and sauté the sliced onion for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Add tomato paste and fry for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
  5. Pour in the blended pepper mixture and cook for 15–20 minutes until reduced.
  6. Add seasoning cubes, thyme, curry powder, paprika, salt, and bay leaves.
  7. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
  8. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a gentle boil.
  9. Add the washed rice and stir until evenly coated with the sauce.
  10. Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 25–35 minutes.
  11. Check occasionally and add a little hot water if needed.
  12. Once the rice is tender, gently fluff with a fork.
  13. Allow the rice to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Long-grain parboiled rice gives the best texture.
  • Avoid adding too much liquid to prevent mushy rice.
  • For a smoky party Jollof flavor, allow the rice to lightly toast at the bottom on very low heat.
  • Serve with fried chicken, grilled fish, turkey, plantains, moi moi, or salad.