Nigerian Jollof Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

    For the rice:

        2 cups long-grain rice (rinsed)

        4 cups chicken broth

        1/4 cup vegetable oil

        1 medium onion, chopped

        2 plum tomatoes, blended (or 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes)

        1 red bell pepper, blended (optional)

        2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)

        1 tablespoon tomato paste

        1 teaspoon curry powder

        1/2 teaspoon thyme

        Salt to taste

    Optional additions:

        1 bay leaf

        1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

        1 cup green peas (frozen or thawed)

Instructions:

    Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

    Add the tomato mixture: Pour in the blended tomatoes (and bell pepper, if using) and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the tomatoes turn a deep red color.

    Introduce the spices: Add the tomato paste, curry powder, thyme, and salt. Stir to combine and cook for another minute.

    Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

    Cook the chicken (optional): If adding chicken, carefully add it to the pot and bring back to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

    Add the rice and adjust seasoning: Stir in the rinsed rice and adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.

    Simmer and steam: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during this time.

    Fluff and serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for 5 minutes with the lid still on. This allows the steam to further distribute and fluff up the rice. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.

Tips:

    Adjust the spice level: Scotch bonnet peppers are quite spicy. Start with one and add more to taste.

    For a richer flavor: You can substitute chicken broth with beef broth or a combination of both.

    Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken for a vegetarian version. You can add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn.

    Leftovers: Jollof rice tastes even better the next day. Simply reheat it in a pan with a little bit of broth or oil to prevent drying.

Enjoy this delicious Nigerian classic!