Bananas With Jollof? Don’t Judge Me

It’s been a long while since I actually cooked a proper meal. I’ve been eating out so today felt like a mini homecoming to my kitchen. Honestly, I think my pots were side-eyeing me like, “Ah, so you still remember us?” They’ve been sitting idle for weeks, maybe even plotting a protest, but I finally gave one a chance to shine today.

The inspiration? ^{you bet something inspired me}

I stumbled across one of Hilda Baci’s videos. Yes, the Guinness World Record holder herself cooked jollof rice and my inner chef stretched, yawned, and said: “Bring the rice.” Not 90+ hours oh, just enough to make Sunday sing again. Lol.

What I used

4 cups rice (well-rinsed till the water runs clear)
1 large onion
Seasoning cubes
Tomato paste
Pepper (to taste; blended)
Blended shrimps (for that rich, savory kick)
Vegetable oil
Thyme
Curry powder
Salt (to taste)
1 ½ cup of water (enough to cook/steam the rice)

Step-by-Step

Prep & Rinse

Rinse the rice several times until the water runs mostly clear. This helps it cook fluffy, not gummy.

Onion Sizzle

Heat vegetable oil on medium. Add the chopped onion and saute till sweet and translucent.

Tomato Paste “Fry Down”

Stir in the tomato paste. Fry low, medium, 3-5minutes, stirring so it doesn’t burn. You’re cooking out the raw taste till it darkens slightly and smells rich.

Spice Bloom

Add thyme and curry. Seasoning cubes. Stir 30–60 seconds to wake the spices up.

Build the Base

Pour in the water to create a light stew (enough to later cook the rice). Taste and adjust as this is the flavor the rice will absorb.

Rice In, Heat low

Add rinsed rice. Stir once to coat, then don’t over-stir.

Shrimp Boost

Add the blended shrimps and pepper and a pinch of salt. Add water and cover with a tight lid.

Cook on low heat till the water is absorbed and the rice grains are tender (check occasionally; add a splash of hot water if needed).

When ready, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Then serve.

I didn’t use any protein here because first, I don’t eat fish because it’s fishy. Second, my teeth ache from consuming too much meat. I should have gotten eggs or veggies but I didn’t. I opted for bananas instead. I don’t know if that’s conventional but whatever.