Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces (or you can use beef, lamb, or shrimp as an alternative)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, blended or finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon dried or fresh chili pepper (optional for heat)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
3. Add the chicken (or your choice of meat) to the pot and cook until it browns on all sides. If using shrimp, add them later as they cook quickly.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, ground ginger, ground paprika, dried thyme, curry powder, and chili pepper (if using). Cook for about a minute until the spices are fragrant.
5. Add the blended or chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir until it is well coated with the tomato and spice mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. If necessary, add a bit more broth or water during the cooking process.
9. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to steam.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.

Jollof Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish that is commonly served with fried plantains or a side of coleslaw. Enjoy this delicious Ghanaian recipe!