Jolloff Rice + Beef Kebabs With Peanut Sauce

Featuring piri piri chili pepper, tomato, and onion, the spicy, aromatic flavors of our Jollof rice is a representation of the heart and soul of West Africa. Our home recipe is inspired by the multiple variations of this dish that can be found across the region’s countries, such as Sierra Leone, Senegal, Ghana, and Nigeria.

Growing up, we were always surrounded by food, and living in Brooklyn exposed us to culinary traditions from every corner of the world. Our first introduction to Jollof rice was during a visit to a friend’s house for his birthday. I remember walking into the kitchen and greeting his mother as she stood over the stove, meticulously layering spices and ingredients. The air was filled with excitement and the tantalizing aroma of the dish being prepared. You could sense that something special was cooking.

When we all gathered to eat, the Jollof rice took center stage. It was a vibrant, colorful dish, unlike anything we had seen before. As I took my first bite, I was instantly transported. The flavors were bold and rich, with each bite revealing a perfect blend of spices, tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice. It was a burst of flavor.

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Photo: Rosanna Anil

RECIPE

Measurements:

1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak,

cut into cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Chopped peanuts and chopped

cilantro for garnish (optional)

Peanut Sauce:

1⁄2 cup peanut butter

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon grated ginger

1 clove garlic, minced

Water (as needed to thin the sauce)

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add beef cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated beef cubes onto soaked wooden skewers.

3. Grill beef kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked to desired doneness.

4. Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and water until smooth and creamy.

5. Serve the beef kebabs with peanut sauce drizzled on top, garnished with chopped peanuts and cilantro if desired.