Jollof Rice is one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes—bright, bold, and packed with irresistible tomato flavor. It appears at birthdays, weddings, family dinners, and street parties across Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and beyond. Kids love its mild sweetness, adults enjoy its rich depth, and food lovers everywhere crave its iconic red color and smoky aroma.
If you’re searching for a recipe that unites all ages and tastes, this is the one.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Jollof Rice Recipe
- Perfect for family dinners and parties
- Loved by kids and adults
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- One-pot, easy-to-follow method
- Customizable spice level
- Authentic West African flavor
🍅 Ingredients
For the Tomato Base
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 medium onion
- 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (use 1 or remove seeds for kids)
For the Jollof Rice
- 3 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon white pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup oil (vegetable or canola)
Optional Add-Ins
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, sweetcorn)
- Grilled chicken or beef
- Fried plantains (for serving)
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Tomato Blend
- Add tomatoes, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet, and one onion to a blender.
- Blend until smooth. Set aside.
Tip: Let the blended mixture simmer for 12–15 minutes to remove excess water and enhance flavor.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Heat oil in a pot and sauté sliced onions until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and fry for 3–5 minutes to develop a deep flavor.
- Pour in the blended tomato mix and cook on medium heat until it reduces and thickens.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
- Add curry powder, thyme, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and white pepper.
- Stir well and let the sauce cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Rice
- Rinse the rice until water runs clear.
- Add the rice to the pot and stir until every grain is coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Jollof
- Pour in broth and reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pot tightly with foil, then place the lid on top—this helps create the smoky “party jollof” flavor.
- Cook for 25–30 minutes, checking occasionally and stirring gently.
Step 6: Add Vegetables (Optional)
- When rice is almost done, fold in mixed vegetables.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or salad.
