• Traditional Nigerian Jollof Rice


     A vibrant, flavorful one-pot meal that’s a staple across West Africa

    This classic Nigerian dish combines long-grain parboiled rice with a rich tomato and pepper sauce, infused with aromatic spices and herbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser for lunch, dinner, or festive occasions, and it keeps beautifully when stored properly.

    The secret to authentic Jollof Rice lies in slow-cooking the rice in the tomato-pepper sauce until it absorbs every bit of flavor. You can add vegetables or proteins as desired, making it versatile and perfect for meal prep. Using Stash Proof Vacuum Seal Bags ensures the rice stays fresh and ready for quick reheats, retaining its vibrant color and taste.

  • White bowl filled with Nigerian jollof rice on a light wooden surface.
  • Uncooked rice in a brown paper bag on a wooden surface

  • Recipe: Traditional Nigerian Jollof Rice


    Servings: 6 

    Prep Time: 20 minutes 

    Cook Time: 50 minutes 

    Total Time: 70 minutes

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups parboiled long-grain rice
    • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 2 cups blended tomatoes, red bell peppers, and Scotch bonnet peppers
    • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    • 2 teaspoons curry powder
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 2 bay leaves
    • 2–3 bouillon cubes (Chicken or meat depending on protein choice)
    • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
    • 1–2 cups mixed vegetables (optional: peas, carrots, green beans)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Instructions:

    1. Rinse rice thoroughly and set aside.
    2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
    3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
    4. Add blended tomato and pepper mixture, curry powder, thyme, bouillon cubes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    5. Add rice and bay leaves, stirring to coat the grains evenly in the sauce.
    6. Pour in stock, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
    7. If using vegetables, add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed.
    8. Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  • Red tomatoes and orange bell peppers on a dark background

  • Pro Tips:

    • Avoid mushy rice by rinsing and parboiling rice beforehand.
    • Smoky flavor comes from allowing rice to cook undisturbed on low heat, letting it absorb the tomato sauce.
    • Customize protein by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu during the last 10 minutes.

  • How it works with Stash Proof Bags:


    Cool the rice completely and vacuum seal in Stash Proof bags for fridge or freezer storage. The rice retains its flavor, moisture, and vibrant color, making it easy to reheat without losing its authentic taste.

    A timeless dish, rich in flavor and tradition — Jollof Rice is a must-have in any meal rotation, and Stash Proof bags make storing it simple and convenient.