Nigerian Jollof Rice — Smoky, Spiced & Party-Perfect
Derek Chen adapted by JojoM
Classic Nigerian jollof rice made with a rich tomato-pepper base, aromatic spices, and butter for that signature smoky, party-perfect flavor loved across West Africa.
Nigerian Jollof Rice — Smoky, Spiced & Party-Perfect 🍅🔥
If there’s one dish that defines celebration across West Africa, it’s Nigerian Jollof Rice. This vibrant, smoky, and deeply spiced rice dish is the heartbeat of every party — from weddings to Sunday cookouts. 🇳🇬✨ Its bold red hue and rich tomato-pepper aroma make it impossible to resist, and once you’ve had a spoonful of that buttery, smoky rice, you’ll understand why it’s a national treasure.
🌶️ The Secret of Great Jollof
What makes a true Nigerian jollof isn’t just the ingredients — it’s the process. The base starts with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a fiery Scotch bonnet, blended into a smooth sauce and simmered until it darkens into a thick, caramelized base. This "party jollof" flavor comes from cooking the rice low and slow, letting the bottom layer slightly caramelize for that irresistible smoky depth.
🍚 Layers of Flavor
After building the jollof base, it’s combined with tomato paste, curry powder, thyme, and chicken stock. The rice absorbs this rich, spiced sauce, transforming every grain into a burst of flavor. Finally, a touch of butter rounds everything off — giving the rice a silky finish and balancing the heat of the Scotch bonnet.
Serve it with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or suya beef for a classic Nigerian meal that feeds both stomach and soul. ❤️
💡 Pro Tips
- Use parboiled long-grain rice — it stays fluffy and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Cook in a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and achieve the signature smoky crust.
- Let the rice steam on low heat — resist the urge to stir!
- For authentic “party jollof,” let the bottom layer caramelize slightly before fluffing.
🎉 Why This Dish Shines
Whether served at birthdays or backyard barbecues, this recipe guarantees that signature smoky, spiced aroma that fills the air and brings everyone to the table. With its balance of heat, depth, and buttered finish, this Nigerian jollof rice captures the spirit of West African hospitality — bold, warm, and always ready to share. 🥘✨
Source: Derek Chen on TikTok
Nigerian Jollof Rice — Smoky, Spiced & Party-Perfect
Derek Chen adapted by JojoMClassic Nigerian jollof rice made with a rich tomato-pepper base, aromatic spices, and butter for that signature smoky, party-perfect flavor loved across West Africa.
Chef's Tips
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning.
For extra smoky flavor, let the bottom slightly caramelize before mixing.
Add grilled chicken or fried plantains on top for a full meal.
Tools Used
Wooden Spoon
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Ingredients
Jollof Base
Jollof Rice
Instructions
Make the Jollof Base
- 1
Blend red peppers, onion, tomatoes, chili, ginger, and garlic until smooth.
- 2
Heat neutral oil in a saucepan and simmer the blend for 10–15 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- 3
Season lightly with salt and set aside.
Cook the Jollof Rice
- 1
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté minced onions until fragrant.
- 2
Stir in tomato paste, bay leaves, curry powder, thyme, and bouillon cube; cook for 5–7 minutes.
- 3
Add the prepared jollof base and simmer until slightly thickened.
- 4
Stir in washed rice, salt, and chicken stock. Mix well to combine.
- 5
Cover with foil and lid; cook on low heat for 30–35 minutes without stirring.
- 6
Add butter and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Comments & Reviews
Tosin Adeniyi
10/8/2025
Nigerians can never approve anyone’s jollof rice 🤣 but he did good!
Keena
10/8/2025
Where’s the smoked meat? That’s my favorite part!
RHEMA🖤
10/8/2025
No chicken or plantain?? Still looks delicious though 😍
Sirmonsalot
10/8/2025
It should be darker for true party jollof vibes, but otherwise solid!
Joseph
10/8/2025
I like this guy. Simple and authentic cooking style!
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
