Recipe For Nigerian Dishes, Jollof Rice

[Naijafans]

One of the most beloved aspects of Nigerian culture is its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Nigerian food is known for its rich and aromatic flavors, using a wide range of ingredients and spices. Here is a recipe for one of the best-known Nigerian dishes, Jollof Rice:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried bay leaves
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup cooked or grilled chicken, diced (optional)
• 1 cup cooked or fried shrimp (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers are slightly tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the thyme, curry powder, paprika, white pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir well to combine all the spices with the tomato mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Add the parboiled rice to the pot, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Gently stir to combine the rice with the tomato mixture.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and tender, and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid stirring the rice during this process to prevent it from becoming mushy.
9. If using, add the diced chicken and cooked shrimp to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir gently to incorporate the meat into the rice.
10. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit covered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork, and remove the bay leaves.
12. Serve the Jollof Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Jollof Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of proteins such as grilled chicken, fried fish, or roasted vegetables. It is often served at celebrations, gatherings, and special occasions in Nigeria, and its delicious flavors and vibrant colors make it a favorite among Nigerians and food enthusiasts around the world.