Making the perfect party jollof rice is something we all want, with the holiday season in the air and promises of great family moments, we have this recipe from 9jafoodie for the perfect party jollof rice.
To achieve that great party Jollof that we desire, there are several factors we need to take into consideration:
1. Meat stock (omi Eran) – Party Jollof is never cooked with water. Good quality homemade meat broth is required.
2. Bay leaf: This is a must. It completes the spice trio of Curry, thyme and white pepper.
3. Quality thyme: A good quality thyme lends itself well to party Jollof. Splurge on a good brand or even fresh thyme if you can find it.
4. Smoke: traditionally this is achieved because of firewood cooking. It can also be achieved stove-top through a controlled burn. It’s important to remember that the smokiness should be subtle without assaulting your palate
5. Butter: yes yes yes. Don’t ask questions, just add it.
6. Used oil: Because Jollof is often prepared alongside stewed meat, oil that has been used to fry meat is often used instead of fresh oil. This lends to the smokiness of the rice.
[Download a meal timetable for the family]
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup oil
- Small onion (chopped)
- 4 cups of rice
- 4 cups broth (stock – omiÂeran)
- 2 cup parboiled blended stew base*
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Teaspoon each (curry, thyme, white pepper)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt  to taste
- Seasoning cube  2Â-3 cubes
- Sliced tomato and onion (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Direction
1. Place a pot on medium heat, heat up the oil
2. Add in the sliced onion. Fry until slightly browned. Add in spices and bay leaf. Stir
3. Add in tomato paste. Stir fry. Cover and cook for 2Â-3 mins
4. Add in pepper mixture. Stir-Fry. Cover and cook 5 mins
5. Add in stock, seasoning cube and salt. Stir. Cover and simmer for 15 mins. Taste and adjust for seasoning.
6. Stir in drained washed rice. Reduce heat to medium-low (2-3 on marked cooker). Seal the pot with foil then cover with the lid.
7. Cook for 30 mins. No need to stir or open. LET IT GO
8. Stir in butter, sliced tomatoes and onions. Increase heat to high (This is where the smokiness happens). Leave for 5-8 minutes or just until you can smell the burn. Turn off heat. Leave to rest covered for 10 minutes before serving.
To make it healthier you can add vegetables like carrots, green beans, runner peas, etc or you can substitute rice with Basmati rice. Enjoy!
source: 9jafoodie
