Introduction:
Jollof rice is a popular West African dish known for its rich and flavorful taste. It is a staple at gatherings, parties, and family meals. While there are many variations of Jollof rice, the key to a delicious dish lies in the right combination of ingredients and cooking techniques. In this blog, we will explore how to prepare a mouthwatering Jollof rice on a tight budget, without compromising on taste and quality.

Ingredients:
To prepare a delicious Jollof rice on a budget, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain rice
– 1 can of tomato paste
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2- 3 tomatoes, blended into a puree
– 1 red bell pepper, blended into a puree
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 3- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 2- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of thyme
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/ 4 cup of vegetable oil
– Optional: 1- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and green beans)

Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water and set it aside to drain.
2. In a large pot or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the tomato paste to the pot and cook it for a few minutes, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
4. Pour in the blended tomato and bell pepper puree, and continue to cook the mixture for about 10- 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the thyme, curry powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried basil to the pot, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Once the mixture is boiling, add the drained rice to the pot, and stir to ensure that the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
8. If using mixed vegetables, add them to the pot at this stage and stir to combine.
9. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and allow the Jollof rice to simmer for about 20- 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
10. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and garnish with additional chopped green bell pepper for a pop of color and freshness.

Conclusion:
Preparing a delicious Jollof rice on a tight budget is absolutely achievable with the right ingredients and cooking techniques. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this budget-friendly Jollof rice recipe is sure to impress and delight your taste buds.

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