Fried rice is a colorful and flavorful dish that’s a staple at parties, celebrations, and family gatherings. It’s a delightful blend of rice, vegetables, and proteins, cooked with aromatic seasonings that make it irresistibly delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Nigerian fried rice.

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Ingredients

Core Ingredients:

• Rice: 2 cups (long-grain parboiled rice works best)
• Carrots: 2 medium-sized, diced
• Green Beans: 1 cup, chopped
• Sweet Corn: 1 cup
• Green Peppers: 1 large, diced
• Spring Onions: 1 cup, chopped
• Cooked Proteins: Diced chicken, shrimp, or liver (optional)

Seasonings and Additions:

• Chicken or Beef Stock: 4 cups
• Vegetable Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Curry Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Seasoning Cubes: 2-3
• Salt: To taste
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon (optional)
• Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Parboil the Rice: Wash the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Parboil it in lightly salted water for about 5-7 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the carrots, green beans, green peppers, and spring onions. Set them aside in separate bowls.

Step 2: Cook the Base

1. Heat the Stock: In a pot, bring the chicken or beef stock to a boil. Add curry powder, thyme, seasoning cubes, and a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the Rice: Add the parboiled rice to the boiling stock. Stir and cook on low heat until the stock is absorbed and the rice is tender but not soggy. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped carrots, green beans, green peppers, and spring onions to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crunchy.
3. Add Sweet Corn: Stir in the sweet corn and cooked proteins (if using), and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the Rice: Gradually add the cooked rice to the pan, mixing well to combine with the vegetables and proteins.
2. Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, curry powder, or seasoning cubes if needed.
3. Finish Stir-Frying: Stir-fry the rice and vegetables for an additional 5-7 minutes to enhance the flavor and ensure everything is well mixed.

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Tips for Perfect Nigerian Fried Rice

• Use Day-Old Rice: If possible, use rice that has been cooked a day prior and refrigerated. This helps prevent clumping during stir-frying.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep the vegetables slightly crunchy for added texture and a vibrant appearance.
• Customize the Proteins: Feel free to use chicken, shrimp, beef, or even tofu to suit your preference.
• Work in Batches: If you’re making a large quantity, stir-fry the rice in smaller portions to ensure even mixing.

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Nigerian fried rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with:

• Fried or grilled chicken
• Moi Moi (steamed bean pudding)
• Plantains (fried or grilled)
• Salads or coleslaw

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