1-First, Blend the Base: Begin by blending all the base ingredients until smooth. This includes the red bell pepper, vine tomatoes, red onion, scotch bonnet chillies, garlic, ginger, and water. Once blended, you’re ready to build the flavorful foundation of your Jollof rice.

2-Heat and Cook the Onions: Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it softens. This step helps release the onion’s natural sweetness, setting the stage for the rest of the dish.

3-Add and Cook the Tomato Purée: Stir in the double concentrated tomato purée and cook for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring, until it darkens and thickens. This process deepens the flavor, making your Jollof rice even more irresistible as a traditional West African cuisine staple.

4-Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the blended base sauce, stir well, and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce reduces by about a third and the oil separates, which is a sign of rich, developed flavors.

5-Incorporate Spices and Liquids: Stir in the curry powder, dried thyme, chicken stock cubes, bay leaves, and 600ml of water. Season generously with salt and pepper, then cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. This mix infuses the sauce with the spices that define authentic Jollof rice.

6-Prepare and Add the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly with cold water until the water runs clear, then drain it. Add the rice to the sauce and stir well to combine. Once it boils again, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 25 minutes.

7-Finish and Serve: Check if the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender. If it’s too wet, cook uncovered for a few minutes to evaporate excess liquid; if undercooked, add 100 200ml water, cover, and cook on low heat until done. Remove the bay leaves, stir the rice, and serve it warm. For added flair, pair it with grilled chicken to complement the meal, as suggested in traditional tips.