Description
A vibrant and flavorful staple in Nigerian cuisine, perfect for gatherings and celebrations, infused with a rich tomato base and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1–2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons thyme (dried or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Optional: Protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, or tofu)
Instructions
- Wash the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear.
- Blend the Sauce: Blend tomatoes, red bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet peppers until smooth.
- Heat the Oil: Sauté the chopped onions in vegetable oil until translucent.
- Cook the Blend: Add blended tomato mixture and cook for 10-15 minutes until reduced.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in thyme, curry powder, and salt to taste.
- Add Broth and Rice: Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then add washed rice.
- Introduce the Bay Leaf: Add bay leaf, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
- Fluff the Rice: Fluff cooked rice with a fork to separate grains.
- Incorporate Protein: Fold in cooked protein if desired.
- Garnish: Top with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or a splash of coconut milk. Store leftovers for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Nigerian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg