How to prepare Nigeria jollof

Nigerian Jollof rice is a delicious and popular dish known for its rich flavors. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare Nigerian Jollof rice:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice
• 400g of chicken, beef, or any meat of your choice (optional)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 red bell peppers, blended or finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, blended or finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 1 teaspoon of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup of vegetable oil
• 2 cups of chicken or beef stock
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon of bouillon powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of butter (optional)
• Fresh parsley or coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly with cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

2. If you're using meat, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat and brown the meat on all sides. Remove the meat and set it aside.

3. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

4. Add the blended or finely chopped red bell peppers, tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture reduces slightly.

5. Add the thyme, curry powder, paprika, dried thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, bay leaves, and salt. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Return the meat to the pot (if using) and pour in the chicken or beef stock. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the stock.

7. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir it gently to combine with the sauce. Make sure the rice is evenly coated.

8. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until it is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid stirring the rice during this time to prevent it from becoming sticky.

9. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, you can add a tablespoon of butter to give it a richer taste and stir gently to incorporate.

10. Let the Jollof rice rest for a few minutes, covered, to allow the flavors to settle. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or coriander leaves.

Your Nigerian Jollof rice is now ready to be served! It pairs well with grilled or fried chicken, beef, or fish. You can also serve it with fried plantains, coleslaw, or a side salad. Enjoy your delicious homemade Jollof rice!