Nigerian Catfish Rice Recipe

Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, we’re excited to share with you a delicious and filling recipe for Nigerian catfish rice. This dish combines tender, flaky catfish with fragrant rice and a variety of flavorful spices that will transport your taste buds right to West Africa. With the help of your trusty rice cooker, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, let’s get cooking! We’ve made this nigerian catfish rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 1 large catfish, cleaned and cut into small pieces
• 2 cups of long-grain rice
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons of paprika powder
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 2 cups of water
• 2 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash the rice and set aside.
2. Season the catfish with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper and set aside for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a large frying pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and fry the catfish until golden brown. Remove the catfish from the oil and set aside.
4. In the same frying pan, sauté the onions and tomatoes until they become soft and fragrant.
5. Add salt and bouillon cubes, stir well, and let cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the rice and stir to coat with the onion and tomato mixture. Add the water and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is soft.
8. Gently add the fried catfish on top of the rice, cover the pot again, and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes to allow the catfish to warm through.
9. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

How long does nigerian catfish rice last in the fridge?

Nigerian catfish rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to four days. It is important to cool the rice completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat the rice, microwave it for a few minutes, or warm it up in a skillet with a touch of oil or stock. Keep in mind that reheating cooked rice too many times may cause bacterial growth, so it is best to only reheat as much as you will eat at once. Additionally, always follow food safety guidelines and discard any rice that has been left at room temperature for more than two hours.

Low calorie nigerian catfish rice recipe substitutions

To make this Nigerian Catfish Rice recipe lower in calories, a few substitutions can be made. Firstly, replace the vegetable oil with a low-calorie cooking spray to reduce the overall calories in the recipe. Additionally, use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice as it has more fiber, which can help keep one feeling fuller for longer, resulting in less overall calorie intake. Use low-sodium chicken bouillon cubes instead of regular ones, or replace with vegetable broth or water to reduce the sodium content. Finally, while catfish is a healthy choice, it is still high in calories, so reducing the amount of catfish in the recipe or choosing a leaner protein source like skinless chicken would also be beneficial. All of these substitutions combined will help make this recipe lower in calories while still remaining flavorful and delicious.

What to serve with a nigerian catfish rice?

Nigerian catfish rice is a delicious and filling meal on its own, but it can be paired with a variety of side dishes that complement its bold flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving the rice with a side of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Alternatively, you could serve it with a side salad or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Some also like to serve catfish rice with plantains or grilled yams, as these complement the dish’s hearty and slightly spicy flavors. Whatever you choose, be sure to enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!

Whats the best sauce for a nigerian catfish rice?

A delicious and common sauce to serve with Nigerian catfish rice is a spicy tomato-based stew called “stewed tomatoes.” This sauce is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers in vegetable oil, then adding blended tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, ginger, and cayenne pepper for heat. The mixture is then simmered until thickened and seasoned with salt and bouillon. This stew pairs perfectly with catfish rice, as the flavors complement each other, making for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Nigerian catfish rice health benefits

Nigerian catfish rice provides several health benefits. Catfish is an excellent source of protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which support the immune system, brain function, and cardiovascular health. Using brown rice instead of white rice increases fiber intake, helping to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The addition of vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and peppers increases the nutrient density and antioxidant content of the dish, promoting eye health, skin health, and reducing the risk of chronic disease. Overall, Nigerian catfish rice is a healthy and nutritious meal.