Nigerian Fried Rice

Nigerian · Dinner · Easy

Nigerian Fried Rice

Total
1 hr
Prep
20 min
Serves
4
Calories
480
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Golden rice fries with diced liver, carrots and green beans, with curry powder and thyme giving this Nigerian party staple its character.

Curry-scented grains and small pieces of liver distinguish Nigerian Fried Rice from soy-seasoned versions. Cooking the rice in broth builds flavor before the vegetables join it, while a final turn in a hot skillet keeps the mixture lively.

Use long-grain parboiled rice and cut the vegetables into small, even pieces. The liver should be firm enough to dice but still tender; cook it through, then return it only briefly at the end.

Method

  1. Combine rice, chicken broth, 1 tsp curry powder, thyme and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer over low heat for until tender. Rest off the heat for and fluff.

  2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Cook beef liver with black pepper for , turning, until it reaches 160°F. Transfer to a plate.

  3. Add remaining oil and onion to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for , then add carrot and green beans for until just tender. Stir in frozen peas and remaining curry powder for .

  4. Add the cooked rice and liver and stir-fry over medium-high heat for until hot and evenly mixed. Use two batches if the skillet is too full to turn the rice freely.

Forkue tips

  • Choose a mild yellow curry powder; a strongly clove-heavy garam masala will give a different flavor.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water until steaming hot, turning gently to keep the rice grains from breaking.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

480Calories
21gProtein
72gCarbs
13gFat

Photo: Honeybee5512, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)

Nigerian Fried Rice: FAQ

Can I leave out the liver?

Yes. Diced cooked chicken or shrimp can replace it, although liver gives the classic version its distinctive savory flavor.

Do I need day-old rice?

No. Rice cooked in seasoned broth can be used after a short rest, provided it is not wet or overcooked. Fluff it before adding it to the vegetables.

How do I store and reheat Nigerian Fried Rice?

Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water until steaming hot, turning gently to keep the rice grains from breaking.

How long does Nigerian Fried Rice take?

About 1 hr in total: 20 min prep and 40 min cooking.

What do I need to make Nigerian Fried Rice?

The key ingredients are parboiled long-grain rice, chicken broth, beef liver, onion, carrot and green beans, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Nigerian Fried Rice?

Choose a mild yellow curry powder; a strongly clove-heavy garam masala will give a different flavor.