Smoky Party Jollof Rice is a flavorful and rich version of the classic dish, often cooked over an open flame or with a technique that gives it a signature smoky aroma. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to achieve that authentic party Jollof taste.

Ingredients:

3 cups long-grain parboiled rice

5 large tomatoes (blended)

3 red bell peppers (tatashe, blended)

2 scotch bonnet peppers (blended)

1 large onion (half blended, half sliced)

½ cup tomato paste

3 cups chicken or beef stock

1 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon curry powder

2 teaspoons smoked paprika (for extra smokiness)

1 teaspoon white pepper (optional)

2 bay leaves

2 seasoning cubes (Maggi or Knorr)

½ tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)

½ cup vegetable oil

1 cup sliced onions (for caramelizing)

1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)

½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)


Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base Sauce

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot. Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown.

Stir in tomato paste and fry for 3-5 minutes to remove the raw taste.

Add the blended tomato, red bell pepper, and scotch bonnet mix. Fry on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates (about 15-20 minutes).

Add thyme, curry powder, white pepper, nutmeg, bay leaves, seasoning cubes, and smoked paprika. Stir well.


2. Cook the Rice

Wash the parboiled rice thoroughly and drain.

Add the rice to the sauce, stirring well to coat every grain.

Pour in the hot chicken or beef stock. Cover and cook on low heat.

Once the liquid is almost absorbed, reduce the heat further and let the rice steam. Do not stir too much to prevent sogginess.


3. Achieve the Smoky Flavor

To get that signature smoky taste, allow the rice at the bottom of the pot to slightly burn (not completely charred, just a little). This mimics the traditional firewood method used at parties.

Another trick is to cover the pot with foil before placing the lid to trap heat and intensify the flavor.


4. Final Touch

Add a tablespoon of butter and caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.

Stir gently and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.


Serving Suggestions

Serve your smoky party Jollof rice with grilled chicken, beef, plantains, salad, or moi moi for a complete meal.

Would you like a specific side dish recipe to go with it?

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