Get ready to ignite your taste buds with the bold and fiery flavors of West African cuisine! Jollof Rice, a staple dish from Nigeria and Ghana, has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. This one-pot wonder is a masterclass in balance, blending the perfect harmony of spices, herbs, and ingredients to create an addictive flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
In this article, we’re taking the classic Jollof Rice recipe and turning it up a notch with 18 spicy variations that will elevate your meal game for every occasion. From comforting one-pot dishes to innovative twists with international flavors, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive show-stopper for a special gathering, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Classic Nigerian Jollof Rice
Jollof rice, a staple dish in West Africa, is a flavorful one-pot meal that never fails to bring people together. This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and drained rice to the pot. Stir well.
4. Add 4 cups water to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ghanaian Jollof Rice with Chicken
Savor the flavors of West Africa with this classic Ghanaian dish, a one-pot wonder that combines aromatic spices, tender chicken, and flavorful jollof rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (optional), seeded and chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
5. If using Scotch bonnet peppers, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegetarian Jollof Rice with Plantains
Jollof rice is a staple dish in many West African countries, and this vegetarian version adds a sweet twist with the addition of plantains. This one-pot wonder combines flavorful tomato sauce with aromatic spices, sautéed vegetables, and tender plantains.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, bell pepper, and cumin. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
5. Add sliced plantains to the saucepan during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Jollof Rice with Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of West Africa with this spicy jollof rice dish, elevated by succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked jollof rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the jollof rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cayenne pepper and paprika; stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked shrimp and stir-fry until pink and fully cooked.
5. Combine the cooked jollof rice with the shrimp mixture and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Jollof Rice and Beans
Experience the flavors of West Africa with this simple and satisfying one-pot dish that combines aromatic rice, tender beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add rice, beans, water, and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jollof Rice with Grilled Fish
Jollof rice, a popular West African dish, pairs perfectly with grilled fish for a flavorful and nutritious meal. This recipe combines the bold flavors of jollof rice with the tenderness of grilled fish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 fish fillets (tilapia or cod work well)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using water and add-ins (tomatoes, oil, onion, garlic, cumin).
3. Grill fish fillets for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve jollof rice alongside grilled fish, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jollof Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spices and flavors of jollof rice with roasted bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked jollof rice
– 1/2 cup ground beef or turkey, cooked
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked jollof rice with ground beef or turkey, diced onion, garlic, tomato paste, and cumin.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
6. Remove foil and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jollof Rice Salad with Avocado
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of West Africa with the creaminess of avocado, making it a perfect side dish or light meal. With its simple preparation and bold taste, this Jollof Rice Salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Jollof rice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked Jollof rice, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time)
Jollof Fried Rice with Leftovers
Transform your leftover jollof rice into a flavorful fried rice dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is a creative way to repurpose jollof rice, adding some exciting textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked jollof rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked jollof rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
5. Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the rice mixture, adding salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jollof Rice and Suya Chicken Skewers
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of West Africa with this delicious fusion dish! Jollof rice, a staple in Nigerian cuisine, pairs perfectly with suya chicken skewers.
Ingredients:
For the Jollof Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt to taste
For the Suya Chicken Skewers:
– 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup peanut sauce (or suya spice blend)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Cook the Jollof Rice according to package instructions with added ingredients.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with peanut sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve Jollof Rice alongside suya chicken skewers.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jollof Rice with Coconut Milk
A popular one-pot dish from West Africa, Jollof Rice is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the richness of coconut milk. This recipe adds a creamy twist to the classic version.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Stir in coconut milk. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Jollof Rice with Turkey
This West African-inspired recipe combines the classic one-pot dish of jollof rice with smoky turkey and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked jollof rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Fluff with fork and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jollof Rice and Moi Moi Combo
Experience the bold flavors of West Africa with this simple recipe that combines the popular Jollof Rice dish with a rich and creamy Moi Moi. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this combo is sure to please!
Ingredients:
For the Jollof Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Moi Moi:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed plantains
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Jollof Rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked rice with spice mixture.
5. For the Moi Moi, mix together mashed plantains, heavy cream, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve Jollof Rice alongside the creamy Moi Moi.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jollof Rice Pizza with Cheese Topping
Experience the bold flavors of West Africa with this unique fusion recipe that combines the spices of Jollof rice with the simplicity of a pizza. This dish is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Jollof rice
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust or Naan bread
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sliced chicken, diced bell peppers, olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Spread the cooked Jollof rice evenly over the pizza crust or Naan bread.
3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the rice.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add optional toppings of your choice.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jollof Rice with Fried Plantains and Egg
A flavorful one-pot dish from West Africa, Jollof rice is a staple in many households. This recipe elevates the classic by adding crispy fried plantains and a runny egg on top – a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Form plantain slices into a single layer on a plate. Drizzle with butter and fry in a hot skillet until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Fry eggs in a separate pan, sunny-side up.
7. Serve Jollof rice topped with fried plantains and an egg.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jollof Rice and Coleslaw Side Dish
Savor the flavors of West Africa with this classic Jollof Rice dish, served alongside a refreshing Coleslaw side. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Jollof Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coleslaw:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Jollof Rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan; add onion, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add cooked rice to the pan, stirring well to combine with spices.
4. For Coleslaw: Combine cabbage, carrot, mayonnaise, vinegar, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
Cooking Time:
– Jollof Rice: 15-20 minutes
– Coleslaw: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Jollof Rice with Coleslaw side dish!
Jollof Rice with Spicy Beef Stew
This classic Nigerian dish combines the bold flavors of jollof rice with the richness of spicy beef stew. Perfect for a hearty meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Jollof Rice:
– 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
For the Spicy Beef Stew:
– 500g beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the jollof rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
3. Add tomato puree, beef broth, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes or until thickened.
5. For the stew, brown the beef in oil; set aside.
6. Sauté the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
7. Add beef broth, browned beef, salt, and black pepper; simmer for 1 hour.
8. Serve jollof rice alongside the spicy beef stew.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (jollof rice) + 2 hours (stew)
Jollof Rice Pancakes with Tomato Sauce
Experience the fusion of West African and Italian cuisines with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of jollof rice with the comfort of tomato sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy pancake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jollof rice
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Tomato sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cooked jollof rice, flour, eggs, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Using a ladle, pour small amounts of the rice mixture into the pan to form pancakes.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to curl, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Serve the jollof rice pancakes hot with tomato sauce spooned over the top. If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering jollof rice recipes! From classic Nigerian and Ghanaian dishes to innovative twists like jollof fried rice and jollof pizza, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian options, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Plus, discover unique combinations like jollof rice with grilled fish, coleslaw side dish, and even pancakes with tomato sauce! With this array of spicy and flavorful dishes, you’ll never get bored with jollof rice again.
