Jollof Rice Recipe Vegan Style: Easy & Delicious Guide

Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish known for its rich, smoky tomato base and vibrant flavors. Traditionally made with chicken or fish, this versatile dish can easily be transformed into a vegan delight without compromising on taste or authenticity.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to African cuisine, this vegan jollof rice recipe is simple to make, packed with wholesome vegetables, and perfect for any occasion.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a delicious, plant-based version of jollof rice that’s both hearty and satisfying. You’ll find tips on balancing flavors, choosing the right rice, and enhancing the dish with fresh herbs and spices.

Plus, this recipe is great for meal prepping and sharing with friends and family. Ready to spice up your dinner routine?

Let’s dive into this vibrant, colorful, and comforting vegan jollof rice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan jollof rice is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic West African favorite without animal products. The recipe is:

• Flavor-packed: The smoky, spicy tomato base is deeply satisfying and perfect for those who love bold tastes.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
• Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and plant-based proteins, it’s a balanced, wholesome meal.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels, add different vegetables, or incorporate legumes for extra protein.
• Great for leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for batch cooking and meal prep.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice (rinsed and drained)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped (divide into halves)
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, blended or 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 red bell peppers, blended with tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers or other hot chili (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans – optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with lid
• Blender or food processor
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or sieve (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomato and pepper blend: In a blender, combine the ripe tomatoes, red bell peppers, scotch bonnet peppers, and half the chopped onion. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the remaining half of the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add tomato paste and spices: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, curry powder, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
4. Cook the tomato-pepper blend: Pour in the blended tomato and pepper mixture. Simmer on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce slightly and intensify in color and flavor.
5. Add rice and broth: Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch. Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat the grains with the sauce. Pour in the vegetable broth, stir well, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer and cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the steam in.
7. Add vegetables: About 10 minutes before the rice is done, gently fold in the mixed vegetables. Cover and continue cooking until vegetables are tender but still bright and crisp.
8. Rest and fluff: Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it rest covered for 5-10 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork.
9. Serve and garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

For the best jollof rice, always use parboiled long-grain rice to achieve fluffy, separate grains.

Here are some ways to customize your vegan jollof rice:

• Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas, black-eyed peas, or tofu cubes for extra protein.
• Smoky flavor: Incorporate a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste.
• Vegetable variety: Feel free to add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach near the end of cooking.
• Mild version: Reduce or omit the scotch bonnet peppers if you prefer a milder dish.
• One-pot meal: Add cubes of sweet potatoes or plantains for a heartier version.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan jollof rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments to round out your meal. Consider serving it with:

• Fried plantains: Sweet and crispy, they add a delightful contrast to the spicy rice.
• Steamed greens: Collard greens, kale, or spinach lightly sautéed with garlic.
• Vegan protein: Grilled tofu, tempeh, or seitan marinated in complementary spices.
• Salads: A fresh cucumber and tomato salad or a tangy coleslaw balances the richness.
• Hot sauce: A dash of your favorite chili sauce can kick up the heat even more.

For more exciting vegan recipes, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Conclusion

This vegan jollof rice recipe is a true celebration of West African flavors made accessible and plant-based. Its rich tomato and pepper sauce, infused with aromatic spices, brings warmth and comfort to the table.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and satisfying taste.

By embracing fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can enjoy the soulful essence of jollof rice without any animal products. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or special gatherings.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegan recipes like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas to expand your plant-based culinary repertoire.

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