Jollof Rice

  • recipe By: Nagl
  • published on: 29 Apr 2025
  • updated: 29 Apr 2025
Experience the vibrant taste of West Africa with Jollof Rice — a one-pot dish where rice is simmered in a rich blend of tomatoes, peppers, and spices for a bold, comforting flavor.

Overview

Jollof Rice is a flavorful West African dish made by cooking rice in a spicy tomato-pepper sauce with herbs and seasonings. Combine blended peppers, tomatoes, onions, and spices with rice, broth, and vegetables, then simmer until tender. Serve with your choice of meat or plantains.

Ingredients

For the Base Sauce
2 large red bell peppers, chopped
2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
1-2 scotch bonnet peppers
2 cloves garlic
1-inch piece ginger, grated
½ cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon curry powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
For the Rice
1 ½ cups brown rice or parboiled long-grain rice
1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 medium carrot, finely diced
1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
½ cup green peas
1 teaspoon coconut oil or olive oil
½ teaspoon bay leaf
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1
Step 1: Make the Base Sauce
  1. Blendthe bell peppers, tomatoes, onion, scotch bonnet, garlic, and ginger with ½ cup broth until smooth.
  2. Heat a nonstick panover medium heat, add coconut oil, then stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the blended sauce and add paprika, thyme, curry powder, and salt. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
2
Step 2: Cook the Rice
  1. Rinse the brown ricethoroughly and drain.
  2. In a large pot, heat 1 teaspoon of oiland lightly toast the rice for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the sauce, broth, and bay leaf, then stir well. Bring to a gentle simmerover medium heat.
  4. Cover and cook for 30-40 minutes(or per rice package instructions), stirring occasionally. If needed, add a bit more broth.
3
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
  1. Once the rice is tender, stir in the carrots, bell peppers, and peas.
  2. Cover and let steam on low heat for 5 minutesto keep the veggies crisp and retain nutrients.
4
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
  1. Remove from heat, discard the bay leaf, and fluff the rice with a fork.
  2. Garnish with fresh cilantroand serve with avocado slices or a squeeze of lime for extra freshness!

Healthy Tips

✔ Less oil, same flavor! Using minimal oil keeps it heart-healthy without sacrificing taste.
✔ Mushrooms add meaty texture! Great for extra nutrients and a richer umami flavor.
✔ Protein swaps: Try tofu for a plant-based version or shrimp for a lighter option.
✔ Pair with: Cauliflower rice, whole-grain fufu, or millet swallow for a healthier alternative to pounded yam.

Serving Suggestions

Conclusion

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