🔥 Jollof Rice Recipe (West African Style)
A flavorful, vibrant, one-pot rice dish loved across West Africa — especially in Nigeria and Ghana.
This version is easy, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Learn how to make authentic West African Jollof Rice with tomatoes, peppers, spices, and fluffy long-grain rice. A flavorful one-pot dish perfect for lunch, dinner, parties, or meal prep.
🥘 Ingredients
For the Tomato Base
- 3 large tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 2 scotch bonnet peppers (optional for heat)
For the Rice
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ginger powder
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1–2 cubes chicken bouillon
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Blend the tomato base
Blend tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and scotch bonnet until smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the tomato paste
Heat oil in a pot and sauté tomato paste for 3–4 minutes until it darkens.
3. Add blended mixture
Pour in the blended tomato mix. Cook on medium for 15–20 minutes until the sauce reduces and thickens.
4. Add spices
Add thyme, curry powder, paprika, bay leaves, ginger powder, bouillon cubes, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add rice and broth
Add the washed rice and stir to combine.
Pour in chicken broth until rice is just covered.
6. Cover and steam
Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes.
Do not stir — let it steam to stay fluffy.
7. Fluff and serve
When the rice is soft and liquid absorbed, fluff with a fork.
Serve hot with chicken, beef, or fried plantains.
🍽️ What to Serve With Jollof Rice
- Fried chicken
- Grilled fish
- Fried plantains
- Coleslaw
- Beef skewers
⭐ FAQs
1. Which country invented Jollof Rice?
Jollof originated from the Wolof people in Senegal but is now iconic in Nigeria and Ghana.
2. Why is my Jollof Rice mushy?
Too much water or stirring during cooking can make it mushy. Always steam on low heat.
3. Can I make it without spice?
Yes! Leave out the scotch bonnet and reduce paprika for a mild version.
4. Can I add vegetables?
Yes — peas, carrots, or green beans are commonly added.
🔗 Similar Recipes
- Chicken Curry Recipe
- Nigerian Beef Stew
- Coconut Rice
- Fried Plantains
- Peri Peri Chicken

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