Nigerian Palm Oil Rice Recipe (Native Jollof Rice) – A Traditional Delight

If you love Nigerian cuisine, then you must try Palm Oil Rice, also known as Native Jollof Rice. This flavorful dish is a delightful twist on the classic Nigerian Jollof Rice, cooked with palm oil, fermented locust beans (iru), and smoked fish, giving it a unique taste deeply rooted in Nigerian heritage. It’s an easy, one-pot meal bursting with umami flavors and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal, or simply try something new, this Palm Oil Rice recipe is exactly what you need. Let’s dive into this authentic dish and learn how to prepare it the Nigerian way.

Why You’ll Love This Palm Oil Rice Recipe

Rich & Flavorful: The combination of smoked fish, crayfish, and palm oil creates a mouthwatering aroma.
Easy to Prepare: One-pot cooking makes this a simple, stress-free meal.
Traditional Goodness: Brings back nostalgic flavors from the Nigerian countryside.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats from palm oil.

Ingredients for Nigerian Palm Oil Rice

To prepare this delicious native jollof rice, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice
1/3 cup palm oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 tablespoons ground crayfish
2 tablespoons fermented locust beans (iru)
1 teaspoon ground pepper (or to taste)
1 cup smoked fish (deboned and shredded)
2 cups chicken or beef broth (or water)
1 cup periwinkles (optional)
2 seasoning cubes
Salt (to taste)
2 tablespoons chopped scent leaves (or basil)

Optional Add-Ins:

Shrimps or prawns
Diced cow skin (ponmo)
Palm fruit extract (for extra richness)
Sliced utazi leaves (for a slight bitter taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Nigerian Palm Oil Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
Parboil the rice for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Palm Oil

In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat.
Allow the oil to bleach slightly (not too much to avoid bitterness) for about 2 minutes.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
Stir in the ground crayfish and fermented locust beans (iru), and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add the smoked fish and stir well to infuse the flavors.
Pour in the ground pepper, seasoning cubes, and salt to taste.
Stir in the broth (or water) and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add the parboiled rice into the pot and mix well.
Cover the pot and let the rice cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
If the rice is too dry, add a bit more water and continue cooking until tender.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the periwinkles and chopped scent leaves.
Cover and allow to steam for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.
Fluff the rice gently and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Palm Oil Rice pairs well with:

Fried or grilled plantains (dodo)
Spicy pepper sauce
A side of fresh vegetables
Chilled palm wine or zobo drink

Tips for the Best Palm Oil Rice

Use quality palm oil – Fresh, unrefined red palm oil gives the best authentic flavor.
Don’t over-bleach the oil – Slight bleaching enhances the taste without losing nutrients.
Adjust spice level – If you prefer it milder, reduce the ground pepper.
Use well-seasoned broth – This boosts the overall richness of the rice.
Let it rest – Allowing the rice to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors.

Health Benefits of Palm Oil Rice

This native jollof rice isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:

Palm oil: Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants that support heart health.
Crayfish & smoked fish: Great sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Locust beans (iru): A probiotic that aids digestion and boosts immunity.
Scent leaves: Contains antibacterial properties and helps digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Palm Oil Rice without fermented locust beans (iru)?

Yes, but iru adds a distinct umami flavor. If unavailable, you can use ground ogiri or leave it out.

2. Can I cook Palm Oil Rice with coconut milk?

Absolutely! Coconut milk adds a creamy, sweet twist to the dish, making it even more delicious.

3. What’s the difference between Palm Oil Rice and Jollof Rice?

While both are rice-based dishes, Jollof Rice is tomato-based and cooked with vegetable oil, while Palm Oil Rice is cooked with palm oil and has a more earthy, traditional taste.

4. Can I use fresh fish instead of smoked fish?

Yes, but smoked fish gives the dish an authentic taste. If using fresh fish, grill or fry it before adding it to the rice.

Nigerian Palm Oil Rice (Native Jollof Rice)