What is Jollof Rice?

Jollof Rice is a west affair food that is mainly made of rice, tomatoes and tomato pastes. It is very popular throughout Western Africa, especially in an area that stretches from Senegal and Gambia in the westernmost part of the region to Nigeria on the easternmost side. Due to its extensive geographical presence, there are several variations of Jollof Rice. The most popular combination of vegetables is carrots, peas and corn. Meat is usually beef, goat or chicken. Some people use fish, although they are easier to disintegrate during cooking, limiting its attractiveness. Sometimes, but rarely, meat and vegetables are completely omitted. Meanwhile, the meat is cooked in another pot. When it is done, meat and the resulting broth pour into a bowl or container and put aside. Vegetables can be cooked in another small pot. Onions, tomatoes and red peppers are roasted in oil, and when these objects become soft, tomato paste, meat and part of the broth are added. Salt, ground red peppers and spices such as Maggi nEbo Knorr Cubes are added for taste. The result is a red stew.

rice and vegetables are then poured into steamed meat. Some people prefer to pour into washing at this stage, but uncooked rice and vegetables and have been waiting for cooking these objects until then. This method also serves as a measure to prevent too soft rice and vegetables. The mixture is covered and cooked in medium to low fire until there is a liquid. The resulting red and tasty rice is most commonly served with fried plantain, although the play and beans are another popular accompaniment.

Jollof rice was created between Wolof, an ethnic group based mainly in Senegal, and a country that consists of a thin strip of land set by Gambia. The food is called Benachin, which means "one pot" in Wolof. From the beginning in the Senegambia area, food has spread to other parts of West Africa. Today is actually more closely identified with countries such as Nigeria and GHana than with the region of its origin. Jollof Rice is particularly popular as a family food after worship on Sunday or on special occasions such as birthdays, weddings and funerals.