Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish that brings vibrant flavors and a rich cultural history to your table. Known for its beautiful red hue and aromatic spices, this one-pot meal is a staple at celebrations and family gatherings. Each country has its own twist on the recipe, but the core ingredients—rice, tomatoes, and spices—remain the same, creating a deliciously satisfying experience.

Using a rice cooker simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish without the fuss. With just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering Jollof rice that’s infused with the warmth of West African cooking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet flavorful recipe that captures the essence of tradition and comfort.

Rice Cooker Jollof Rice – West African Classic With Tomatoes And Spices

Ingredients

To create a delicious Rice Cooker Jollof Rice, gather the following ingredients. They are divided into three categories: Jollof Rice components, Tomato Sauce ingredients, and Seasoning essentials.

For Jollof Rice

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 1 to 2 fresh red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 to 2 fresh green bell peppers, chopped
• 1-2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

For the Tomato Sauce

• 1 can (14 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)

• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 to 2 tablespoons curry powder (optional)
• 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to spice preference)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfect Rice Cooker Jollof Rice that captures the essence of West African flavors.

1. Rinse the Rice: Place 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice in a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice.
2. Chop Vegetables: Dice 1 medium onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic. Peel and grate a 1-inch piece of ginger. Chop 1-2 bell peppers (red or yellow) and slice 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers according to your heat preference.
3. Prepare Tomato Sauce: In a blender, combine 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the juice of 1 lemon. Blend until smooth and set aside.
4. Measure Broth: Pour 3 cups of vegetable broth or water into a measuring jug. You can adjust this amount based on your desired rice texture.
5. Gather Spices: Measure out 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of curry powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Keep these ready for easy access during cooking.

These prep steps ensure that you have everything organized for a smooth cooking process.

Cook

Now that you have prepared all the ingredients it’s time to cook your Jollof rice. Follow these steps for a delicious meal packed with flavors.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Blend Ingredients: In a blender add 1 can of tomato paste 1 cup of diced tomatoes 1 medium onion 1 bell pepper 2 cloves of garlic 1-inch piece of ginger and 1 Scotch bonnet pepper if you’d like extra heat. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat Oil: In the rice cooker add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and set it to the sauté function. Once hot add 2 chopped onions and sauté until translucent. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Sauce: Pour the blended tomato mixture into the rice cooker. Stir in 1 teaspoon of thyme 1 teaspoon of curry powder 1 teaspoon of paprika and salt to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally. You want it to reduce and thicken slightly.

1. Rinse the Rice: Before adding the rice rinse 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Combine Rice and Sauce: Add the rinsed rice to the tomato sauce in the rice cooker. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth ensuring the rice is well submerged. Stir gently to combine.
3. Season the Mixture: Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and the juice of 1 lemon to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir the mixture again.
4. Cook the Rice: Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the cooking function. Allow it to cook for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff and Serve: Once cooking is complete let the rice sit for 5 to 10 minutes without opening the lid. After resting use a fork to fluff the rice gently for a light texture.

Equipment Needed

To create delicious Jollof rice using a rice cooker, you will need the following equipment:

• Rice Cooker: A standard rice cooker will help you achieve perfectly cooked rice while combining all the flavors easily.
• Measuring Cups: Essential for measuring rice, liquids, and oil accurately, ensuring your proportions are just right.
• Measuring Spoons: Use these for precise measurements of spices and seasonings.
• Sharp Knife: A good-quality knife is necessary for chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, and peppers.
• Cutting Board: This will provide a stable surface for chopping and dicing your ingredients.
• Blender: A blender is key for making the smooth tomato sauce by combining tomatoes and spices effectively.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Use this to stir the ingredients and ensure everything is well combined during cooking.
• Ladle: A ladle will help you serve the Jollof rice beautifully.
• Serving Dish: Choose a large dish to present your Jollof rice when it’s ready to eat.

Having all the right equipment on hand makes the cooking process efficient and enjoyable, enabling you to focus on creating a flavorful meal.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing your Jollof rice in advance can save you time and ensure a delicious meal whenever you desire. Follow these make-ahead steps:

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Blend all tomato sauce ingredients including diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and peppers. You can store this sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, freeze the sauce for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
2. Rinse and Soak the Rice: Rinse long-grain parboiled rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 30 minutes to improve its texture. Drain the rice and store it in a sealed bag or container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to two days.
3. Gather and Pre-measure Ingredients: Pre-measure all spices and seasonings. Store them in labeled containers for easy access when you’re ready to cook. Chop any additional fresh ingredients such as onions or peppers and keep them in the fridge for up to a day.
4. Combine Ingredients for Cooking: If you prefer, you can combine the soaked rice with the prepared tomato sauce and pre-measured spices in the rice cooker pot. Store the pot in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This way, you can simply add broth and start your rice cooker without any delays.

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can ensure that you’re only steps away from enjoying a flavorful pot of Jollof rice even on busy days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Rice Cooker Jollof Rice with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its rich flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Protein Pairings

• Grilled Chicken: Marinate chicken pieces in spices or a flavorful sauce before grilling. The smoky notes complement the spiced rice beautifully.
• Fried Plantains: Slice ripe plantains and fry them until golden. Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory rice.
• Beef Stew: Prepare a hearty beef stew using tender cuts, vegetables, and spices. Serve it alongside the Jollof rice for a comforting combination.

Vegetable Options

• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steam broccoli, carrots, or green beans. Their crunch adds freshness to your plate.
• Salad: Create a vibrant salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette. This provides a refreshing contrast to the warm rice.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish your Jollof rice with chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Sliced Avocado: Add slices of creamy avocado for a rich texture that balances the spices in the rice.

• Family Style: Present the Jollof rice in a large serving dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Plates: Serve the Jollof rice in individual bowls with sides beautifully arranged for a more formal presentation.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions to create a memorable dining experience that showcases the delightful flavors of your Rice Cooker Jollof Rice.

Conclusion

Rice cooker Jollof rice is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of West African culture and flavors. By using a rice cooker, you can simplify the cooking process while still achieving that authentic taste. The vibrant blend of tomatoes and spices creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also versatile.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins and vegetables to make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With the right preparation and a few tips, you’ll be serving up a pot of Jollof rice that captures the essence of West African cuisine. Enjoy the journey as you create this unforgettable dish in your kitchen.