If you’re looking for a unique way to elevate your regular rice meals, this Nigerian Curry Rice recipe made with fresh curry leaves (lemon basil) will leave your taste buds dancing. Popularized by Chef Amaka, this fragrant, colorful dish brings together the richness of palm oil, the boldness of local spices, and the sweet aroma of Nigerian herbs. All ingredients you can source easily from SundryAgro.
Why You’ll Love This Nigerian Curry Rice
- One-pot convenience: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- Herbal and fresh: Infused with Nigerian curry leaves, also known as lemon basil.
- Perfect for lunch or dinner: Pair it with grilled chicken, fried plantains, or fish
Ingredients for Nigerian Curry Rice
To recreate this easy rice recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 cups of Rice (parboiled) – Available in bulk at SundryAgro
- A handful of fresh Nigerian curry leaves (lemon basil) – Get freshly picked herbs from SundryAgro
- 2 Tatashe (red bell peppers)
- 2 Green Rodo (green scotch bonnets)
- 1 medium-sized Onion (sliced)
- ¼ cup Palm oil
- 2 tablespoons ground Crayfish
- Seasoning cubes and salt (to taste)
- 1 cup Stock water (chicken, goat meat, or fish)
- Fresh Parsley for garnish (optional)
Tip: Don’t know where to shop for all these ingredients? SundryAgro offers high-quality, farm-fresh options perfect for home cooks and busy professionals.
How to Make Chef Amaka’s Curry Rice
- Blend your base: Blend the tatashe, green rodo, and a bit of onion until smooth.
- Sauté the flavors: In a pot, heat palm oil and add sliced onions. Let it cook till translucent.
- Add blended mix: Pour in the pepper blend and allow it to fry on medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the oil rises to the top.
- Season the sauce: Add crayfish, seasoning cubes, and salt. Stir well.
- Pour in stock: Add your stock water and bring to a boil.
- Add the rice: Stir in the parboiled rice. Let it cook till the water begins to reduce.
- Herbal twist: Add chopped Nigerian curry leaves and stir gently.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and allow to steam until rice is fully cooked and infused with flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving.
 Sundry Agro Cooking Tips: Elevate Your Curry Rice Game
Want to take your curry rice to the next level? Here’s how to make every bite unforgettable:
Boost the Protein
Add a hearty touch by mixing in diced beef, tender chicken chunks, smoked turkey, or classic smoked fish. Not only do these add satisfying texture, but they also infuse the rice with rich, savory layers of flavor. For a truly traditional twist, try adding some pomo or dry fish — your tastebuds will thank you!
Curry Leaves Are the Star
Nigerian curry leaves are the quiet heroes of this dish. The more you add, the deeper the herbal, aromatic depth you’ll achieve. These leaves release a fragrant oil when cooked, transforming your kitchen into a festival of flavor. Don’t be shy; let them shine!
Even Better the Next Day
Here’s a secret: curry rice tastes even better after it’s had time to rest. Reheating allows the spices and herbs to meld beautifully, making this a perfect dish for meal prep or make-ahead dinners. Cook once, enjoy all week!
A Hidden Gem in Nigerian Cuisine
This curry rice with Nigerian curry leaves is an underrated treasure. It’s quick, nourishing, and packed with bold, traditional flavors. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner, impressing unexpected guests, or exploring new twists on classic meals, this recipe never fails to deliver.
No Time to Go to the Market? We’ve Got You.
Sourcing fresh ingredients shouldn’t slow you down. Let SundryAgro be your trusted personal shopper! From fresh curry leaves to palm oil, crayfish, seasoning cubes, and more, we deliver everything you need right to your doorstep, so you can focus on creating magic in the kitchen.
Cook it. Snap it. Share it.
We’d love to see your version! Whether you go spicy, smoky, or completely reinvent it, tag us and @SundryAgro on social media to show off your delicious creation. Your kitchen adventure could inspire someone else!