Bananas With Jollof? Don’t Judge Me

It’s been a long while since I actually cooked a proper meal. I’ve been eating out so today felt like a mini homecoming to my kitchen. Honestly, I think my pots were side-eyeing me like, “Ah, so you still remember us?” They’ve been sitting idle for weeks, maybe even plotting a protest, but I finally gave one a chance to shine today.  **The inspiration?** ^{you bet something inspired me} I stumbled across one of Hilda Baci’s videos. Yes, the Guinness World Record holder herself cooked jollof rice and my inner chef stretched, yawned, and said: “Bring the rice.” Not 90+ hours oh, just enough to make Sunday sing again. Lol. **What I used**  4 cups rice (well-rinsed till the water runs clear) 1 large onion Seasoning cubes Tomato paste Pepper (to taste; blended) Blended shrimps (for that rich, savory kick) Vegetable oil Thyme Curry powder Salt (to taste) 1 ½ cup of water (enough to cook/steam the rice) **Step-by-Step** **Prep & Rinse** Rinse the rice several times until the water runs mostly clear. This helps it cook fluffy, not gummy.  **Onion Sizzle** Heat vegetable oil on medium. Add the chopped onion and saute till sweet and translucent.  **Tomato Paste “Fry Down”** Stir in the tomato paste. Fry low, medium, 3-5minutes, stirring so it doesn’t burn. You’re cooking out the raw taste till it darkens slightly and smells rich.  **Spice Bloom** Add thyme and curry. Seasoning cubes. Stir 30–60 seconds to wake the spices up. **Build the Base** Pour in the water to create a light stew (enough to later cook the rice). Taste and adjust as this is the flavor the rice will absorb. **Rice In, Heat low** Add rinsed rice. Stir once to coat, then don’t over-stir.  **Shrimp Boost** Add the blended shrimps and pepper and a pinch of salt. Add water and cover with a tight lid.  Cook on low heat till the water is absorbed and the rice grains are tender (check occasionally; add a splash of hot water if needed).  When ready, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Then serve.  I didn’t use any protein here because first, I don’t eat fish because it’s fishy. Second, my teeth ache from consuming too much meat. I should have gotten eggs or veggies but I didn’t. I opted for bananas instead. I don’t know if that’s conventional but whatever.