How To Prepare Jollof Rice In Ghana: A Flavorful Delight

Jollof rice is a beloved dish in Ghana, cherished for its vibrant flavors and cultural significance. Whether served at family gatherings, celebrations, or everyday meals, Ghanaian jollof rice never fails to delight with its rich taste and aromatic spices. In this guide, we’ll explore the traditional how to prepare jollof rice in Ghana that will transport you to the heart of Ghana.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, blended
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, blended
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste), blended
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt to taste
• Optional: cooked chicken, beef, or fish for added protein

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice
   • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
   • Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes to soften it slightly.
   • Drain the rice and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the blended tomatoes, red bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot.
   • Cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, curry powder, thyme, paprika, and salt to taste. Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes.
3. Cook the Jollof Rice
   • Add the drained rice to the pot with the sauce, and stir until the rice is evenly coated.
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer the rice for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
   • Check the rice occasionally and add more broth or water if needed to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Add the Bell Peppers
   • Once the rice is almost cooked, sprinkle the chopped green bell pepper over the top.
   • Cover the pot again and let the rice steam for an additional 5 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender-crisp.

Fluff the jollof rice with a fork to separate the grains and distribute the bell peppers evenly.

Serve the jollof rice hot as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, fried fish, or beef stew.

Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Also Read: How To Cook Waakye