Jollof Rice for American Taste

Ingredients and Weight:

• Long grain rice, 2 cups
• Beef or chicken stock, 3 cups
• Smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), 12 ounces
• Onion, 1 large (chopped)
• Bell pepper, 1 large (chopped)
• Tomatoes (fresh or canned), 28 ounces
• Tomato paste, 3 tablespoons
• Vegetable oil, 1/4 cup
• Paprika, 1 tablespoon
• Cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Parsley or cilantro for garnish

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25-30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 out of 5 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the smoked sausage and cook until browned.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil.
5. Bring the broth to a boil and add it to the pot.
6. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and flavorful with a hint of spice
• Vibrant red color from the tomatoes
• Hearty and filling
• Easy to prepare and perfect for a crowd

User Comments:

• "This Jollof rice was absolutely delicious! The smoky sausage and the acidity from the tomatoes balanced perfectly with the sweetness from the paprika."
• "I'm not a huge fan of spicy food, but this dish was just right. It had a noticeable kick but it wasn't overpowering."
• "I love how this recipe uses ingredients that are easily available in American supermarkets. It's a great way to introduce African flavors to a wider audience."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you can't find smoked sausage, you can substitute with regular sausage or chorizo.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
• To make a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken stock.