Asun Jollof Rice Recipe

Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish that has become a staple at celebrations and everyday meals alike. But have you ever tried adding a smoky twist to this classic?

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare Asun Jollof Rice at home.

What Is Jollof Rice?

Jollof rice is a one-pot dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices.

It is a staple in many West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal. The dish is known for its rich, tangy flavor and beautiful red color, which comes from the tomatoes and peppers used in its preparation.

The origins of Jollof rice trace back to the Wolof people of Senegal, where a similar dish called ceebu jën is made.

Over time, the recipe has evolved and adapted to local tastes across West Africa, leading to the different versions we enjoy today .

What Is Asun?

Asun is a Nigerian delicacy made from goat meat that’s been marinated, grilled, and then sautéed with peppers and onions.

The grilling process imparts a smoky flavor to the meat, making it a favorite at parties and gatherings.

It is typically served as a snack or appetizer but can also be paired with rice dishes like Jollof rice for a hearty meal. Also read on Top 20 Popular Nigerian Snacks You Must Try

Why Combine Asun with Jollof Rice?

Combining Asun with Jollof rice takes the classic dish to new heights. The smoky, spicy goat meat adds depth and complexity to the rice, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

It’s perfect for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or festive gatherings, but also makes for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Asun (Grilled Goat Meat):

• 1 kg goat meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons ground pepper (Scotch bonnet or habanero)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish (optional)
• 2 seasoning cubes
• Salt to taste

For the Jollof Rice:

• 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes or 4 ripe tomatoes, blended
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried bay leaves
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Asun:

1. Marinate the Goat Meat: In a large bowl, combine the goat meat with vegetable oil, ground pepper, chopped onion, ground crayfish (if using), seasoning cubes, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the meat is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
2. Grill the Meat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated goat meat onto skewers and place them on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is browned and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and set aside.
3. Sauté the Grilled Meat: In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the grilled goat meat and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it starts to crisp up. Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Preparing the Jollof Rice:

1. Rinse the Rice: Wash the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Base Stew: In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened. Add chopped red and green bell peppers, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in the blended tomatoes, thyme, curry powder, paprika, and bay leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens and the oil begins to separate.
3. Add the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat the grains with the tomato mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to retain steam.
5. Combine with Asun: Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the sautéed Asun. Cover the pot and let it sit for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Asun Jollof Rice

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh goat meat and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers used in both the Asun and Jollof rice.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans into the Jollof rice for added nutrition and color.
• Pair with Sides: Serve with traditional Nigerian sides like fried plantains (dodo), fried yam, or a simple salad to complete the meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken instead of goat meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for goat meat. However, the flavor profile will differ, as goat meat imparts a unique smoky taste.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the goat meat with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.