Name: Nigerian Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Nigerian
Ingredients: 3 cups long-grain rice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans); 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 cup cooked chicken or beef (optional); 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 tablespoon thyme; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon white pepper (or to taste); 4 cups chicken broth; Salt to taste; 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Nigerian Fried Rice recipe is perfect for anyone who loves rich, flavorful rice dishes. The combination of seasoned rice and sautéed vegetables creates a beautiful medley of colors and textures. The addition of curry powder, thyme, and bay leaves enhances the taste, giving it a deliciously aromatic and savory kick. Plus, it’s an incredibly versatile dish that you can pair with various proteins or serve as a stand-alone meal. It’s great for meal prepping and perfect for feeding a crowd!

Ingredients

3 cups long-grain rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and green beans)
1 bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup cooked chicken or beef (optional)
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon thyme
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon white pepper (or to taste)
4 cups chicken broth
Salt to taste
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the mixed vegetables and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
Stir in the curry powder, thyme, bay leaves, and white pepper, allowing the spices to cook and release their flavors, about 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice to the pot, stirring to combine.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for about 20-25 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
If you’re using cooked chicken or beef, add it to the rice and stir gently to incorporate.
Season the rice with salt to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions (optional) and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Protein Variations: You can use shrimp, turkey, or pork as an alternative to chicken or beef.
Vegan Option: Omit the meat and use vegetable stock for a delicious plant-based version.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include more vegetables like corn, peas, or sweetcorn for extra color and flavor.
Spicy Option: Add chopped fresh chilies or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Nigerian Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice, but note that it may take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use other types of stock?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken stock with beef or vegetable stock for different flavors.

3. Can I make Nigerian Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes, this dish stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

4. How do I prevent the rice from being too sticky?

Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming too sticky.

5. Can I add more spices to the fried rice?

Yes, feel free to adjust the seasoning and spices according to your taste preferences. You can try adding ginger, allspice, or garam masala for an extra flavor boost.

6. Can I freeze Nigerian Fried Rice?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

7. What kind of vegetables should I use?

Mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and green beans are traditional, but you can add or substitute other veggies like corn, sweetcorn, or bell peppers.

8. How spicy is Nigerian Fried Rice?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding chili peppers or chili powder to suit your spice preference.

9. Can I use jasmine rice for Nigerian Fried Rice?

Yes, jasmine rice works well in this dish and adds a nice aroma, though the texture may differ slightly from traditional long-grain rice.

10. Can I skip the bay leaves?

Bay leaves are essential for the signature flavor of Nigerian Fried Rice, but if you don’t have them, you can still make a tasty version by using other spices like thyme or rosemary.

Conclusion

Nigerian Fried Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the best of Nigerian cuisine. With its vibrant colors, delicious spices, and versatile ingredients, it’s a dish everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!