Classic Nigerian Fried Rice

Ingredients

• 4 cup Long grain parboiled rice (washed until water runs clear)
• 4 cup Meat stock (seasoned beef or chicken stock)
• 1 tbsp Curry powder (divided)
• 1 tsp Thyme
• 2 Seasoning cubes (e.g., Maggi or Knorr)
• Salt (to taste)
• 0.25 cup Vegetable oil (for frying vegetables)
• 0.5 lb Beef liver (boiled and diced)
• 3 Carrots (finely diced)
• 1 cup Green beans (chopped)
• 0.5 cup Sweet corn (canned or frozen)
• 0.5 cup Green peas
• 1 Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 Green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (minced (optional for heat))

Steps

1. 1

   In a large pot, bring the meat stock to a boil. Add the washed parboiled rice, half of the curry powder, thyme, seasoning cubes, and salt. The liquid should be just enough to cook the rice until it is about 90% done (al dente).

2. 2

   Cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice grains are separate and firm. Spread the rice on a tray to cool completely to prevent it from becoming soggy during frying.

3. 3

   In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

4. 4

   Add the chopped onions and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. 5

   Add the diced liver and sauté until slightly browned on the edges.

6. 6

   Add the carrots, green beans, sweet corn, and peas. Season with the remaining curry powder and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

7. 7

   Add the diced green bell peppers and stir for another minute.

8. 8

   Working in batches if necessary, add the cooked rice to the vegetable mixture. Toss and stir-fry over high heat for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to give the rice a slight 'fried' texture.

9. 9

   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with fried chicken, plantains, or coleslaw.

Notes

For the best results, use chilled or completely cooled rice to ensure the grains stay separate. The 'brown thing' mentioned in comments is typically diced fried liver, which is a traditional addition to Nigerian fried rice.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• rice
• fried rice
• Nigerian
• dinner
• lunch
• savory