| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 50 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 3g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 5g | 20g | 0.7g |
The first time I tasted the West African Jollof Rice with Grains of Selim, I knew that this delightful medley of flavors would have a permanent spot in my kitchen. The recipe, though seemingly far removed from my Texas roots, bears a zestiness that reminds me of the vibrant Tex-Mex dishes I grew up with.
I am Sofia, a Texas-raised food fanatic with a taste for traditional Southern recipes with a modern twist. As a grade school teacher, I see firsthand the importance of nutritious meals for young growing minds. This recipe is a testament to the fact that meals can be delicious, comforting, and nutritious all at once.
A Health-centric Approach
The West African Jollof Rice with Grains of Selim is packed with vital nutrients. It combines fresh vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions, which are a great source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. The Grains of Selim – also referred to as African Nutmeg or Guinea pepper – and other spices like curry and thyme not only add a punch of flavor to the dish but offer anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. The addition of fruits makes it a healthy, one-pot meal that ails the stomach and excites the palate!
Gastronomic Harmony
Though delicious on its own, this fruity Jollof rice also pairs splendidly with a variety of dishes. It’s similar to the Spanish Paella and the Creole Jambalaya but with a unique African flair. When combined with some grilled fish or chicken, it reads like a love letter to culinary diversity and a testament to the ability of distinct flavors to coalesce into a beautiful symphony.
If you are interested in further exploring West African cuisine, I would also recommend the Ivorian Aloco or Ghanaian light soup. These dishes, like the Jollof rice, possess a charm that can transport you to a far-off land right at your dining table.
Being a chef is similar to being an artist. We create dishes that not only satiate but also enrich your palate. The West African Jollof Rice with Grains of Selim is a beautiful example of this culinary artistry, a soothing blend of nourishment, flavor, and culture. I encourage you to take a bite out of this dish and add a dash of adventure to your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh tomatoes
- 6 ounces of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of curry powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of Cayenne pepper
- 6 Grains of Selim (also known as African Nutmeg or Guinea pepper), ground
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots and bell peppers)
- 1 1/2 cup of chopped cooked chicken (optional)
- 2 bananas, sliced for garnish
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Any other fruits you may like (optional).
Method
Step One
Begin by rinsing the long-grain parboiled rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This is to ensure that any excess starch is removed.
Step Two
Next, heat up the vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped large onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté these ingredients until they are softened and the onion becomes translucent.
Step Three
Add the finely chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan and stir well. Also, add the curry powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and ground Grains of Selim to the mixture. Mix these thoroughly to ensure the spices are well incorporated into the dish.
Step Four
Once the mixture is well combined, add in the rinsed rice and stir it around until it is well coated with the tomato and spice mixture.
Step Five
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the salt. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Step Six
While the rice is cooking, prepare your mixed vegetables. If they are not pre-cooked, you may need to steam or lightly sauté them. Also, if you’re using chicken, make sure it is cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Step Seven
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the mixed vegetables and optional cooked chicken. Cover the pan once again and let it cook for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Step Eight
For serving, spread sliced bananas and any other fruits you like over the rice. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top to garnish and serve.
Step Nine
Enjoy your delicious West African Jollof Rice with Grains of Selim!
