Classic Nigerian Jollof Rice
Because Jollof Rice is Bae, and much loved South of the Sahara and along the coast of West Africa. Spiced and stewed in a flavorful tomato broth, it is everything from "everyday" to celebration. The classic version is cooked with long-grain rice (Uncle Ben's/Carolina's) and seasoned with curry powder and dried thyme. Served with fried plantains and coleslaw, it is everything. Note that the world might consider this a side but in Nigeria, it is the main. :) Even more special is Party Rice, a smoky version, cooked over an open fire, layered with smoke, spice, and immeasurable goodness. A few years ago, I cracked the code on approximating the smoky flavor on the stovetop. The secret? Read on.
What you will need
4 cups uncooked long-grain rice (not basmati)
5 to 6 cups stock (vegetable, chicken, or beef) or water, divided
6 medium-sized fresh plum/Roma tomatoes, chopped, OR a 400-gram tin of tomatoes
6 fresh, red poblano peppers (or 4 large red bell peppers), seeds discarded
3 medium-sized red onions (1 sliced thinly, 2 roughly chopped), divided
1 to 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (yellow is my favorite!), to taste
1/3 cup oil (vegetable/ canola/coconut, not olive oil)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons (Carribean/Jamaican-style) curry powder
1 teaspoon (heaping) dried thyme
2 dried bay leaves
2 teaspoons unsalted butter (optional), divided
Salt, to taste
Source food52.com
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