What is Jollof Rice?
Jollof rice is a popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is flavorful, vibrant, and best served with fried chicken, plantains, or salad.
Ingredients Needed for Jollof Rice
For 4 servings, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
✔️ 2 cups long-grain rice
✔️ 5 medium-sized fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of tomato puree)
✔️ 1 red bell pepper
✔️ 1 medium onion (chopped)
✔️ 2 cloves garlic (minced)
✔️ 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
✔️ ½ cup vegetable oil
✔️ 1 teaspoon curry powder
✔️ 1 teaspoon thyme
✔️ 1 teaspoon paprika (for color)
✔️ 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
✔️ 1 teaspoon salt
✔️ 1 teaspoon black pepper
✔️ 2 stock cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
✔️ 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Jollof Rice
Step 1: Blend the Tomato Sauce
1️⃣ Blend tomatoes, red bell pepper, and ½ of the onion until smooth.
2️⃣ Pour the mixture into a pot and cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
Step 2: Prepare the Jollof Base
1️⃣ Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger – sauté for 2-3 minutes.
3️⃣ Stir in curry powder, thyme, and paprika for flavor.
4️⃣ Add the thickened tomato mixture and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the Rice & Simmer
1️⃣ Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
2️⃣ Add the rice into the pot and stir well to coat it in the sauce.
3️⃣ Pour in chicken broth (or water) and mix everything.
4️⃣ Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes.
5️⃣ Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If needed, add a little more broth.
Step 4: Fluff & Serve
1️⃣ Once the rice is soft and fully cooked, turn off the heat.
2️⃣ Let it rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
3️⃣ Serve hot with fried chicken, plantains, or salad.
Best Side Dishes for Jollof Rice
🍗 Fried Chicken – Classic pairing
🍌 Fried Plantains – Sweet contrast
🥗 Coleslaw or Salad – Fresh & crunchy
🐟 Grilled Tilapia – Smoky & delicious
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Jollof Rice
❌ Too much water – Makes it soggy
❌ High heat throughout – Causes burnt bottom before rice cooks
❌ Skipping the tomato base frying – Leads to raw tomato taste
Health Benefits of Jollof Rice
✅ Rich in antioxidants – From tomatoes & peppers
✅ Provides energy – Carbohydrates for daily activities
✅ Good source of vitamins – Contains vitamin C & iron
FAQs About Jollof Rice
🔹 Can I use basmati rice for Jollof?
➡️ Yes! But reduce the water amount, as basmati cooks faster.
🔹 How do I make my Jollof more flavorful?
➡️ Use chicken broth, more spices, and let it simmer properly.
🔹 Why is my Jollof rice sticking to the pot?
➡️ Stir occasionally and cook on low heat to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
Jollof rice is a must-try Ghanaian dish that is both flavorful and easy to cook. Follow this guide for perfect, non-sticky, party-style Jollof rice every time! 🍛