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Classic Ghanaian Jollof Rice

June 11, 2026 Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves 6 medium
Classic Ghanaian Jollof Rice

Ingredients

  • 3 cups Basmati rice
  • 6 large Fresh tomatoes
  • 3 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 Scotch bonnet pepper
  • 2 large Onions
  • 4 Garlic cloves
  • 1 inch piece Fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsp Jollof Rice Spice Mix
  • 1/3 cup Vegetable oil
  • 4 cups Chicken stock
  • 2 Bay leaves
  • to taste Salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    Wash rice in cold water until water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes, then drain.

  2. 2

    Blend tomatoes, scotch bonnet, 1 onion, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

  3. 3

    Dice the remaining onion. Heat oil in a thick-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.

  4. 4

    Fry diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.

  5. 5

    Pour in the blended tomato mixture. Cook on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until the oil rises to the top.

  6. 6

    Add tomato paste and Jollof Rice Spice Mix. Stir well and cook for 5 more minutes.

  7. 7

    Pour in chicken stock, add bay leaves, and season with salt. Bring to a rolling boil.

  8. 8

    Add the drained rice. Stir once to distribute evenly.

  9. 9

    Reduce heat to the lowest setting. Cover pot tightly with foil, then place the lid on top.

  10. 10

    Cook for 30 minutes without opening. Do not stir!

  11. 11

    After 30 minutes, check the rice. If cooked through, fluff gently with a fork.

  12. 12

    The golden crust at the bottom (kanzo) is the best part. Serve it up!

The quintessential Ghanaian jollof rice — smoky, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses our Jollof Rice Spice Mix for authentic flavor every time.

Ghanaian jollof rice served with fried plantain
jollof rice ghanaian main-dish

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