The Secret to Perfect Jollof Rice Every Time

The Secret to Perfect Jollof Rice Every Time

Jollof rice is one of the most popular West African dishes loved around the world. Whether it’s a family dinner, party, or celebration, perfectly cooked Jollof rice with rich flavour and vibrant colour makes every meal special. The secret to creating perfect Jollof rice every time is using the right cooking method and premium seasoning like Costack Jollof Rice Seasoning .

Get your Costack Jollof Rice Seasoning 

How to Make Perfect Jollof Rice

1️⃣ Fry your onions
• Heat your oil on medium heat.
• Add the sliced onions and fry slowly for 8–10 minutes until they turn soft and golden brown (not burnt)
• Stir often — this step develops that sweet caramel flavour that defines authentic Jollof.

2️⃣ Add the tomato paste
• Stir in the tomato paste and fry for 5–7 minutes until it darkens in colour.
• Keep stirring to avoid burning — it should go from bright red to a deep, rich red.

3️⃣ Add the blended mix
• Pour in your blended tomato-pepper mix.
• Fry on medium-low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and oil starts to separate to the top.
• This step is called “bleaching the stew” — it removes raw tomato flavour and gives that deep, bold Jollof taste.

4️⃣ Season the base
Add your:
 • Costack Jollof rice seasoning, Thyme, curry powder, bay leaves, seasoning cubes, salt, ginger powder and granulated garlic 
• Optional: a dash of nutmeg or all-purpose seasoning for a more rounded taste

Let this simmer for another 5–10 minutes — now your Jollof base is ready for rice or storage.

🍚 Next Step: Making the Rice
• Add your washed long-grain parboiled rice directly into the sauce.
• Stir to coat every grain.
• Add chicken/beef stock or water — just enough to cover the rice slightly.
• Cover with foil or parchment + pot lid and cook on low heat until done.

🔥 Pro Tip (for that “party” smokiness):
• Once the rice is cooked, leave it on low heat for 5–10 mins to toast slightly at the bottom — it gives that signature smoky aroma




Ingredients for perfect Jollof rice

Blended base:
• 5 medium fresh tomatoes
• 3 red bell peppers 
• 1–2 scotch bonnets 
• 1 medium red onion
• 2–3 garlic cloves
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
Blend everything smooth and set aside. Don’t add too much water — keep it thick.

Frying Base:
• ¾ to 1 cup vegetable or sunflower oil 
• 2 medium onions, finely sliced
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1–2 bay leaves
• 1 tbs thyme
• 1 tbs curry powder
•⁠  ⁠1 tbs ginger powder 
•⁠  ⁠⁠1 tbs granulated garlic
•⁠  ⁠⁠4 tbs Costack Jollof Rice Seasoning
• 2 seasoning cubes 
• Salt to taste
•⁠  ⁠3-4 cups long grain parboiled rice
•⁠  ⁠⁠2-4 cups chicken / beef / vegetable stock
• Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika or browning for extra depth

Why Use Costack Jollof Rice Seasoning

Using the right seasoning is key to making authentic Jollof rice. Costack Jollof Rice Seasoning ensures:

  • Consistent Flavour: Every pot of Jollof rice comes out perfectly seasoned.

  • Authentic West African Taste: Bold, balanced, and delicious.

  • Convenience: All-in-one seasoning, no need to measure multiple spices.

Order your Costack Jollof Rice Seasoning today and make perfect Jollof rice every time

Tips for Perfect Jollof Rice

  • Wash your rice thoroughly before cooking to avoid sticky grains.

  • Fry the tomato and pepper mix until the oil separates to get the deep, rich Jollof flavour.

  • Use low heat while simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

  • For extra smoky flavour, allow the bottom layer to slightly caramelize.

Cooking Jollof rice at home has never been easier. With Costack Spices, you can enjoy authentic West African flavour with minimal effort. Make your next meal unforgettable.

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