Authentic Jollof Rice Recipe | West African One-Pot Meal

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
• 3 medium-sized tomatoes, blended
• 1 red bell pepper, blended
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero for less heat), blended
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or palm oil
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt
• pepper
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans - optional)
• 1 pound chicken or beef (optional for protein)