Nigerian Fried Rice is a true favourite across Nigeria, often reserved for special gatherings, Sunday family dinners, and festive celebrations. This colourful dish is famous not only for its unique flavour but also for the joy it brings when shared among loved ones. Unlike other fried rice recipes around the world, Nigerian Fried Rice is known for its signature blend of spices, like curry powder and thyme, which give it a distinct taste that’s both savoury and aromatic.
One of the reasons this dish is so loved is its versatility. Nigerian Fried Rice combines rice, colourful vegetables, and proteins—like shrimp, liver, or chicken—into a complete, satisfying meal. The medley of vegetables, including carrots, peas, bell peppers, and green beans, adds both a delightful crunch and a burst of colour, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.
Now, there’s always a friendly argument over which tastes better—Nigerian Jollof or Fried Rice. In my opinion, both dishes have their own unique appeal, and it all depends on what you’re craving. Jollof Rice has that smoky, spicy flavor many people adore, while Fried Rice is milder but packed with distinct spices that give it an unforgettable taste. Some prefer pairing Fried Rice with a fresh side like coleslaw, while Jollof Rice often finds a perfect match in moi moi (steamed bean pudding).
Another thing to keep in mind is that Nigerian Fried Rice does have some spice, though it’s not always as hot as dishes like Jollof Rice. Some people might not enjoy it as much because it’s a little less spicy, but this recipe keeps all those delicious flavours and spiciness. You can also add more heat if you prefer!
Star of the Day Ingredient: Green Bell Pepper and Spring Onions
For this delicious Nigerian Fried Rice, our star ingredients are green bell pepper and spring onions.
Why They Shine:
- Green Bell Pepper:
This vibrant vegetable not only enhances the dish’s colour but also adds a mild sweetness and fresh flavour. When blended with spring onions, it creates a beautiful green mixture that gives the fried rice its signature look. Packed with vitamins A and C, green bell peppers contribute to a healthier meal, making them a great choice for those looking to add more nutrients to their diet.
- Spring Onions:
These are perfect for blending alongside the green bell pepper to achieve that rich, vibrant colour in the fried rice. Spring onions provide a lovely crunch and a mild onion flavour that elevates the overall taste of the dish. Their green tops enhance the visual appeal and freshness of the meal.
Together, this blend not only creates a stunning presentation but also enhances the flavour and nutritional profile of your Nigerian Fried Rice.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just trying it out for the first time, Nigerian Fried Rice is straightforward to make and easy to customize. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to balance the flavours and get that perfect texture, so every bite is as good as the last. Let’s dive into how to make this beloved dish at home and bring a bit of Nigerian flavour to your kitchen!
Recipe for Nigerian fried rice:
Ingredients needed for the Nigerian Fried Rice
- Rice
- Carrot, diced
- Green beans, chopped
- Canned peas (optional)
- Sweet corn
- Liver, cooked, fried and diced
- Curry powder (used sparingly)
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, minced
- Bell peppers (red, yellow), diced
- Green bell pepper (for blending)
- Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
- Seasoning cubes/powder
- Salt
- Spring onions, chopped, plus extra for blending
- Parsley (optional, for blending)
- Vegetable oil
- Chicken or beef stock (for cooking the rice)
Preparation of the Nigerian Fried Rice
Prepare the Rice
- Wash the rice with salt and water about three times or until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch from the rice.
- In a pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil, then add diced onion, a light sprinkle of curry powder, and any additional spices you prefer. Toast the washed rice in this mixture for a few minutes.
- Transfer the toasted rice to a pot, add chicken or beef stock, then add seasoning cubes and a pinch of salt. Cook the rice until it’s just tender, being careful not to overcook.
- Once the rice is ready, set it aside to cool completely. Spread it on a tray or refrigerate if you’re short on time.
Blend the Green Mixture
In a blender, combine green bell pepper, spring onions, green scotch bonnet pepper and parsley (if using). Blend until smooth, then set this mixture aside. This blend will add a rich, natural colour to the fried rice, so you don’t need to rely on too much curry powder or turmeric.
Prepare the Vegetables
- In a large pan or wok, heat a bit of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant.
- Next, add the green beans, chopped carrots, and diced scotch bonnet pepper. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still have a slight crunch.
- Add the bell peppers, liver, sweet corn, canned peas, and, stirring everything together. Cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavours to blend.
Combine Everything
- Add the cooled rice to the pan in small batches, stirring each batch in thoroughly before adding more rice and stir fry.
- Toss in the chopped spring onions for a fresh flavour and colour. Stir-fry on medium-high heat for a few minutes to combine all flavours but avoid overcooking.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the fried rice hot, garnished with extra spring onions if desired. Pair with sides like coleslaw, fried plantains, grilled chicken, or moi moi for a complete Nigerian meal.
Tips for the Perfect Nigerian Fried Rice
- Use Day-Old Rice:
For best results, cook the rice a day ahead and refrigerate it. This prevents the rice from clumping and helps it stir-fry nicely without getting mushy.
- Blend Green Bell Pepper, Spring Onions, and Parsley:
Instead of relying on too much curry powder for colour, use a blended mixture of green bell pepper, spring onions, and parsley. This natural blend gives the rice a vibrant look without overpowering the flavour.
- Toast the Rice:
Toasting the rice with a bit of oil, onions, and curry powder enhances the flavour and gives it a slightly nutty taste. It also helps the rice grains stay separate and not to get bad quickly.
- Do not Overcook the Vegetables:
Keep the veggies slightly crunchy. Overcooking can make them lose their vibrant colour and texture.
- Cool the Rice Properly:
Allowing the rice to cool down completely before mixing it with the vegetables prevents it from sticking together and helps you achieve that classic, fried rice texture.
- Adjust the Heat Level:
If you prefer more spice, add extra Scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne. For a milder taste, use fewer peppers or opt for sweet peppers instead.
- Experiment with Proteins:
While liver is a classic addition, you can also use shrimp, diced chicken, or beef. Add it in with the vegetables for extra flavour.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Yes, frozen mixed vegetables can be a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess water in your fried rice.
- Why is my fried rice sticky?
- This can happen if the rice is overcooked or not cooled properly. Try using day-old rice or spread it on a tray to cool before stir-frying.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Simply skip the liver or any other protein and use vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock for cooking the rice.
- How long can I store leftover fried rice?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan with a bit of oil to revive the flavours.
- What if I don’t have curry powder?
- No worries! Since this recipe uses a blended mix of green bell pepper, spring onions, and parsley for colour, you won’t need as much curry powder. However, you can add a pinch of turmeric or a mild curry powder for a touch of flavour.
- Can I make Nigerian Fried Rice spicier?
- Yes! For more heat, add extra Scotch bonnet peppers or a pinch of ground chili. Adjust to taste but remember that Nigerian Fried Rice typically has a milder heat than Jollof.
- What dishes pair well with Nigerian Fried Rice?
- Nigerian Fried Rice pairs perfectly with coleslaw, fried plantains, grilled or fried chicken, moi moi, and peppered fish. It’s also delicious served alongside Jollof Rice for variety.
