Nigerian Jollof Rice with a Delicious Twist

If you're searching for a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to prepare, look no further! I present a recipe for Nigerian Jollof Rice with a unique twist. 

So, traditionally, Jollof rice is usually made plain. Well, I decided to shake things up a bit. Instead of going through the time-consuming process of blending my vegetables and then cooking them down for hrs to get my tomato sauce, I first roast my tomatoes, peppers, and onions instead then blend, eliminating the slow boil. It turned out to be a game-changer! The smoky flavors take the dish to a new level the best part. I started cooking my rice with different proteins, just like you would in a paella, adding complex flavors while saving me time. The result is a Jollof rice bursting with flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. It's a tasty twist on tradition, and I can't recommend it enough. Give it a try.

This one-pot meal requires minimal effort and guarantees a mouthwatering experience. Your guests will be licking their fingers in delight! 

Ingredients:

2 bell pepper (whole wrapped in foil or parchment paper)

1 onion (whole, wrapped in foil or parchment paper)

7 tomatoes (whole)

1 whole head of garlic (wrapped in foil or parchment paper)

Olive oil to coat pan about 2 tablespoon

1/2 Diced onions

1 tablespoon Curry powder

1/2 teaspoon thyme

1/4 teaspoon Salt (add more to your taste)

1 Bay leaf 

1 dried Chile pepper (optional)

2 1/2 cups Rice

A protein of your choice (8-ounce chicken or beef)

3 3/4 cups Chicken broth

Grilled chicken (optional for serving)

Chives or radish sprout for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Roast the vegetables in the oven while you prep other items:

Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place the bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and garlic on a baking tray, each individually wrapped in foil. Roast them in the oven for approximately 20 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Once done, remove the foil and let them cool.

 

Blend the roasted vegetables:

Transfer the roasted bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and garlic to a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Sauté the onions

In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden.

Add the blended sauce. Pour the blended vegetable mixture into the pot with the sautéed onions. Season the sauce with curry powder, thyme, and salt, and add a bay leaf for an aromatic flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

 

Add the rice and protein:

Add the desired amount of rice to the pot, followed by the seasoned and sautéed protein (chicken or beef). Pour enough chicken broth to cover the rice, ensuring it is fully immersed.

Bake the Jollof Rice:

Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven, let it bake for about 30 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Check once to ensure the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is fluffy. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

Serve and garnish.

 

Serve your Nigerian Jollof Rice with a twist, either as a standalone dish or accompanied by chicken or beef. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with finely chopped chives or radish sprouts.

 

There you have it—a delectable Nigerian Jollof Rice with a unique twist that guarantees a delightful and satisfying meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this one-pot wonder will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Enjoy the mouthwatering experience of this finger-licking comfort food!