Make the famous red rice that’s loved across West Africa! This delicious jollof rice is perfect for parties, family dinners, or any time you want something special. No West African celebration is complete without this mouth-watering dish that brings people together.

What You Need

Main Items:

• 4 cups parboiled rice
• 1 tube tomato purée (400g)
• 5 scotch bonnet peppers
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 teaspoons vegetable or olive oil
• 3 cups hot water

Spice Mix:

• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 4 stock cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simple Steps

First: Make the Base (10 minutes)

1. Mix tomato: Empty tomato purée into bowl, add half cup warm water
2. Blend smooth: Put tomato mix, scotch bonnets, and onion in blender
3. Blend well: Mix until completely smooth

Next: Cook the Sauce (10 minutes)

1. Heat oil: Warm oil in large pot on medium heat
2. Test ready: Drop small onion piece – should sizzle and turn brown
3. Add blend: Pour in tomato mixture, stir constantly
4. Add spices: Put in curry, thyme, bay leaf, stock cubes, and salt
5. Cook base: Stir and cook for 5 minutes

Then: Add Water and Rice (5 minutes)

1. Add hot water: Pour in 3 cups hot water
2. Bring to boil: Cover pot and let it bubble
3. Add rice: When boiling, add parboiled rice
4. Cover tight: Put lid back on pot

Finally: Cook Perfect (30 minutes)

1. Cook gentle: Keep on medium heat for 30 minutes
2. Stir carefully: Use wooden spoon, stir gently to avoid burning
3. Check done: Rice should be tender and water absorbed
4. Season: Taste and add more salt if needed
5. Serve hot: Ready for your party!

Smart Tips

Hot oil test: Onion should sizzle when oil is ready Wooden spoon: Prevents rice from sticking and breaking Don’t rush: 30 minutes cooking time is important Medium heat: Keeps rice from burning on bottom Parboiled rice: Must be partially cooked first for best texture

Why Everyone Loves This

Jollof rice is the king of West African food because:

• Party essential: No celebration is complete without it
• Beautiful colour: That famous red colour everyone loves
• Amazing taste: Perfect blend of tomato and spices
• Feeds crowds: Great for big gatherings

Perfect With

• Grilled chicken: Classic combination
• Fried plantains: Sweet and savory together
• Fresh salad: Cooling side dish
• Turkey: For special occasions
• Cold drinks: To balance the spices

Make It Special

Extra flavour: Add bay leaves during cooking More colour: Use extra tomato purée for deeper red Protein boost: Cook with chicken stock instead of water Vegetable version: Add mixed vegetables in last 10 minutes

The Jollof Wars

This recipe works for both Nigerian and Ghanaian style – the secret is in the tomato base and perfect timing. Every West African family has their own special touch!

Keep Fresh

Best hot: Serve immediately while steaming Store: In fridge for up to 4 days Reheat: Add little water and warm gently Party prep: Can make day before and reheat

Total Time: 55 minutes | Serves: 6-8 people | Level: Easy

This easy jollof rice recipe delivers that perfect party-worthy taste that will have everyone asking for your secret!