Fried Rice is a flavorful, vibrant dish that varies slightly by region but generally includes a combination of rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood, all seasoned with aromatic spices and sometimes enriched with a touch of heat. It's a popular dish in many African countries, particularly in West Africa, where rice is a staple food. The dish often incorporates ingredients like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and different proteins like chicken, beef, or shrimp. Here’s a basic recipe for African Fried Rice, which you can adjust according to your region or taste preferences.
Learn how to make The Best Fried Rice Recipe at home! This copycat fried rice recipe tastes just like your favorite restaurant but even better! Loaded with tons of vegetables, scrambled eggs, leftover white rice.
Fried Rice has to be one of my all time favorite takeout inspired dishes to make at home. 
It’s easier to control the saltiness, sweetness and to bump up the veggies when you make it at home! Our family makes this fried rice recipe at least once a week with whatever vegetables we have on hand. It is always the perfect accompaniment to my take out style dishes
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Rice:
2 cups long-grain white rice (or basmati rice)
4 cups water or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
1-2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
1 tsp salt
For the Fried Rice:
3 tbsp vegetable oil (or a mix of vegetable and palm oil for extra flavor)
1 large onion, chopped
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large bell pepper, chopped (green, red, or a mix)
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, etc.)
1 large tomato, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
1 tsp curry powder
1 tsp thyme (optional)
1/2 tsp ground paprika (optional for added color)
1/2 tsp white pepper or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 tbsp soy sauce or Maggi seasoning (optional for umami flavor)
1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for depth of flavor)
Protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, beef, or goat meat), cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes (Optional):
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Fried plantains
Hard-boiled eggs
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch.In a large pot, bring the 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the salt and 1-2 tbsp of oil or butter.Add the rice and cook, following the instructions on the package, until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool. (You can use leftover rice for this dish for a better texture.)
2. Make the Fried Rice:
Heat the 3 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat.Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until soft and translucent.Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the peppers soften slightly.Add the mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and others) and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. You can also add tomatoes at this point and cook them down for 3-4 minutes to sit Stir in the curry powder, thyme, paprika, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
3. Combine the Rice and Vegetables:
Add the cooked rice into the frying pan with the vegetables, and stir well to combine.
Add the soy sauce or Maggi seasoning for extra flavor. If you're using tomato paste, mix it in now, stirring until the rice takes on a slight reddish color and is evenly coated with the seasonings.
If you're using cooked protein (like chicken, shrimp, beef, or goat), add it to the pan and mix well. Let the fried rice cook for another 5-7 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors blend together.
4. Final Touches:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as necessary.Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for color and freshness.Serve the African Fried Rice with fried plantains or hard-boiled eggs on the side for a complete meal.Enjoy your African Fried Rice!
This vibrant, hearty dish is a delicious combination of rice, vegetables, spices, and proteins. It’s perfect for a family meal, a party, or a comforting weeknight dinner. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins to suit your tastes or regional variations!
