How to Cook Jollof Rice and Beans

chicken stock

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water

Vegetable broth provides flavor without meat.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Olive oil is healthier, while sunflower oil is often less expensive.

scotch bonnet pepper

🥗Healthier: jalapeño

💰Cheaper: bell pepper

Jalapeño offers heat, while bell peppers provide sweetness without spice.

curry powder

🥗Healthier: turmeric and cumin

💰Cheaper: none

Turmeric and cumin can mimic the flavor profile of curry powder.

Soak beans in water overnight to soften.

Rinse soaked beans and boil in a pot until tender, about 30-40 minutes.

Blend tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers until smooth.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add blended tomato mixture to the pot and cook until reduced, about 15-20 minutes.

Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices; cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Add boiled beans and chicken stock; mix well.

Stir in rice and ensure it's evenly coated with the sauce.

Add enough water to cover the rice, about 1-2 inches above the surface.

Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, about 20-30 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: