Delicious Jollof Rice Recipe
Learn how to make delicious, authentic Jollof rice with this easy step-by-step recipe guide. Packed with rich tomato flavour, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked rice, this classic West African dish is ideal for family meals, parties, or special occasions. Whether you're new to Jollof rice or looking to perfect your technique, this recipe delivers bold taste and reliable results every time.
Ingredients
- 300 g long-grain rice
- 2 Red Bells
- 400 g Tinned tomatoes
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 3 Cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Ground ginger
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1 tsp Curry Powder
- 500 ml Chicken stock or 2 chicken cubes
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper for heat, optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
- 2 tsp Tomato paste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch, then set aside.
- Blend the tinned tomatoes, red bell peppers, and optional scotch bonnet pepper until smooth.
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Add the tomato paste and fry for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in the ground ginger, thyme, and curry powder, and cook for another minute.
- Add the blended tomato and pepper mix to the pot. Cook on medium heat for about10-15 minutes until the sauce reduces and thickens.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil,
- Add the rice to the pot, stir well, and season with salt and black pepper
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and allow the rice to cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
For the best Jollof rice, use long-grain parboiled rice as it holds its shape and absorbs the rich tomato and spice base without becoming mushy. Allow the rice to steam on low heat after cooking, this is key to achieving the signature smoky flavour and perfectly tender texture. Adjust chilli levels to suit your taste, and avoid stirring too often to prevent the rice from breaking.
For added depth, you can include grilled chicken, prawns, or beef as a side, or stir in vegetables like peppers and peas for extra colour and nutrition.
Vegan Variation
This recipe is naturally easy to adapt for a vegan diet. Simply: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock
Skip any meat or fish additions
Add hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, green beans, or chickpeas for protein and texture
Ensure any stock cubes or seasonings used are fully plant-based The result is a rich, flavour-packed vegan Jollof rice that’s just as satisfying and perfect for sharing.
This recipe is naturally easy to adapt for a vegan diet. Simply: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock
Skip any meat or fish additions
Add hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, green beans, or chickpeas for protein and texture
Ensure any stock cubes or seasonings used are fully plant-based The result is a rich, flavour-packed vegan Jollof rice that’s just as satisfying and perfect for sharing.
