Easy Nigerian Cabbage Fried Rice Recipe That Will Leave Your Guest Impressed At Your Next Party

Fried rice is a beloved dish enjoyed across the globe, known for its versatility and the ability to incorporate various ingredients. In Nigerian cuisine, fried rice is a festive favorite, often served at celebrations and gatherings.

However, the traditional recipe can be given a delightful twist by incorporating cabbage, a vegetable that adds both texture and nutrition. Nigerian Cabbage Fried Rice combines the familiar comfort of fried rice with the crunchy goodness of cabbage, creating a unique and flavorful dish.

Whether you're looking to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at your next party, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice:

• 2 cups long-grain rice (washed and drained)
• 4 cups water (or chicken/vegetable broth for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup cooked chicken or beef (optional), diced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
• 1-2 teaspoons seasoning cube (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 large eggs (optional), beaten
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

For the Marinade (if using chicken or beef)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Prepare

1. Start by cooking the rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water (or broth) to a boil.

2. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and set aside.

3. If using meat, prepare the marinade by mixing soy sauce, vegetable oil, curry powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the diced chicken or beef in the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This step adds extra flavor to the meat.

4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken or beef and cook until fully cooked and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked meat from the skillet and set it aside.

5. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

6. Stir in the diced carrot and bell pepper, cooking until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the green peas and shredded cabbage, cooking for another 5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.

7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables, stirring well to combine. Return the cooked chicken or beef to the skillet if using. Mix in the soy sauce, tomato paste, curry powder, paprika, thyme, white pepper, and salt. Stir everything together, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed and the rice is heated through.

8. If you're adding eggs, push the rice and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are fully scrambled and cooked through. Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice and vegetables.

9. Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or soy sauce according to your preference. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

10. Serve the Nigerian Cabbage Fried Rice hot, either as a main dish or as a side. This dish pairs wonderfully with fried plantains, grilled meats, or a simple salad.

Nutritional Values

This cabbage fried rice is a quick and healthy meal option. It combines the crunchiness of cabbage with the flavour of fried rice. Enjoy this dish as a main course or a side dish. Happy cooking!