How to Make the Best Jollof Rice: A Flavorful West African Classic!

If you’ve never had Jollof Rice before, you’re in for a treat! This iconic West African dish is vibrant, rich, and absolutely packed with flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy weeknight meal. At Spicy Yum!, we love adding our own touch to this dish with our premium organic spices—because let’s be honest, Jollof Rice is all about the spice!

WHAT IS JOLLOF RICE?

A brief back story…….

Jollof Rice is a beloved dish across West Africa, with each country having its own unique spin. The base of the dish is long-grain rice cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce infused with spices. Some people like it mild, others fiery, but no matter how you make it, Jollof Rice is always delicious.

Shop our jollof spice blend here

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Spicy Yum! Jollof Spice Blend (or your favorite spice mix!)
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu – optional)
• ½ cup peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the crushed tomatoes, bell pepper, and half the onion. Blend until smooth.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped onions and cook until soft. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and tomato paste, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Build the Flavor: Pour in the blended tomato mixture and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.

4. Add the Spices: Stir in the thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne, Jollof Spice Blend, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes.

5. Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly and add it to the pot. Stir well to coat the grains in the flavorful sauce. Pour in the broth, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

6. Add Extras & Finish: If using vegetables or protein, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Once the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.

7. Serve & Enjoy! Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro or scallions, and serve hot. Pair it with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad for the ultimate meal!

Jollof rice pairs well with a variety of sides and proteins.

Serve with grilled or fried chicken, grilled or stewed beef, goat meat, grilled fish, sausages, shrimps, fried plantains, or salads.

Pro Tips for Perfect Jollof Rice:

• Use parboiled rice to prevent mushy rice.

• Let the rice steam on low heat for the last few minutes—this helps develop that famous smoky Jollof flavor.

• Customize the spice level to your liking. If you love heat, add more cayenne or a Scotch bonnet pepper.

• Leftovers taste even better! Jollof Rice is one of those dishes that gets more delicious the next day.

There you have it—your very own homemade Jollof Rice, bursting with West African flavors! Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out. Don’t forget to check out our premium spices at Spicy Yum! to take your cooking to the next level.

Happy cooking!

Shop our jollof spice blend here