How to Make Chilli Garlic Jollof: A Bold & Irresistible Recipe for Rice Lovers🌶️🔥

9jakitchenblog
September 18, 2025

Introduction✨

Chilli garlic jollof is a bold, fiery, and aromatic twist on the classic West African jollof rice recipe. By infusing the rich tomato-based sauce with the heat of chillies and the deep flavour of fresh garlic, this dish becomes an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for spice lovers, chilli garlic jollof is a meal that excites the taste buds while keeping the comforting essence of traditional jollof rice intact.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a party, or simply craving a spicy comfort meal, this recipe guarantees a dish that is both satisfying and unforgettable.

Ingredients for Chilli Garlic Jollof🥘

To make chilli garlic jollof, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups long-grain parboiled rice (washed)
5 medium tomatoes (blended)
1 large red bell pepper (blended)
2–3 Scotch bonnet peppers (for spice 🌶️🔥)
1 bulb of garlic (peeled and minced)
1 medium onion (chopped, half blended with tomatoes)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
2 bay leaves
1 cup chicken or beef broth
½ cup vegetable oil
Salt and seasoning cubes (to taste)

Optional Add-ons: grilled chicken, goat meat, or fried plantains. 🍗🍌

Equipment Needed🍴

Large pot or Dutch oven
Blender for tomato-pepper mix
Wooden spoon for stirring
Knife and chopping board
Measuring cups & spoons
Foil or parchment paper (optional, to trap steam)

Step-by-Step Instructions👩‍🍳

Step 1: Prepare the Base Sauce

Blend tomatoes, red bell pepper, half the onion, and chillies until smooth.
Heat vegetable oil in a pot and sauté minced garlic and chopped onions until fragrant.
Add tomato paste and fry for 3–5 minutes to reduce its sourness.
Stir in the blended mixture and cook for 10–15 minutes until thick and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Season the Sauce

Add curry powder, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and seasoning cubes.
Pour in chicken broth and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Wash and parboil the rice for 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Add rice into the sauce, stir well, and reduce the heat to low.
Cover with foil/parchment and lid to trap steam.
Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 4: Add the Garlic Kick

Once rice is nearly done, add extra sautéed garlic for a bold finishing touch.
Stir gently and allow to steam for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with fried plantain, grilled chicken, or salad for a complete feast. 🍽️✨

Your Chilli Garlic Jollof is ready to enjoy!

Chilli Garlic Jollof

Pro Tips for the Best Chilli Garlic Jollof💡

Roast the peppers and garlic before blending for a smoky depth of flavour.
Use basmati rice if you prefer a lighter and fluffier version.
Control the spice level by adjusting the number of Scotch bonnets.
Always cook on low heat for maximum flavour infusion.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)📊

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~ 330-360 kcal
Carbohydrates	~ 48-52 g
Protein	~ 6-8 g
Total Fat	~ 8-10 g
Saturated Fat	~ 1.5-2 g
Dietary Fiber	~ 2-3 g
Sodium	depends heavily on broth & seasoning cubes (can range ~ 400-600 mg)
Sugars	~ 3-5 g

Source: SnapCalorie↗, MyNetDiary↗, LIN↗

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)🙋🏽‍♀️

Q1: Can I make chilli garlic jollof without Scotch bonnet peppers?
👉Yes, substitute with cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or dried chilli flakes for milder heat.
Q2: How can I make chilli garlic jollof vegan-friendly?
👉Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add grilled mushrooms or tofu as protein.

Q3: Can I prepare it in advance?
👉Yes! Chilli garlic jollof tastes even better the next day as the flavours develop further.
Q4: What’s the best meat to pair with chilli garlic jollof?
👉Grilled chicken, goat meat, or fried fish are excellent companions.