Liberian Jollof Rice with Sweet Fried Plantains – Authentic Liberia Recipe

Ingredients for Liberian Jollof Rice with Sweet Fried Plantains (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) long-grain parboiled rice, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups seared chicken pieces, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup caramelized ripe plantains and mixed vegetables
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with tomato paste
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Liberia seasoning (thyme, ginger, garlic, Scotch bonnet)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and tomato paste until golden.
2. Add thyme, ginger, garlic, Scotch bonnet along with long-grain parboiled rice and seared chicken pieces, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with caramelized ripe plantains and mixed vegetables.