Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today we are excited to share with you a delicious and healthy recipe for Nigerian spinach rice. This dish is a perfect way to incorporate leafy greens and protein-packed ingredients into your diet, while satisfying your taste buds with a flavorful blend of spices. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress anyone who tries it. So grab your rice cooker and let’s get started! We’ve made this nigerian spinach 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
- 2 cups of basmati rice, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups of fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until soft.
- Add garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute.
- Add the rice and mix well with the onions and spices. Let cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until rice is cooked through and most of the broth has been absorbed.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pot, cover with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. The spinach will wilt down and the remaining broth will be absorbed by the rice.
- Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork to mix in the spinach. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How long does nigerian spinach rice last in the fridge?
Nigerian spinach rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to 4 days. To ensure maximum freshness and safety, it is important to properly store the dish in an airtight container or resealable bag and placing it in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. When reheating the dish, it is important to ensure that it reaches a temperature of at least 165°F to avoid the growth of any harmful bacteria. If you need to store the dish for longer than 4 days, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When storing in the freezer, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag and labeling it with the date it was cooked.
Low calorie nigerian spinach rice recipe substitutions
To make this Nigerian spinach rice recipe lower in calories, you could replace the basmati rice with cauliflower rice or brown rice, which have fewer calories and more nutrients. Instead of using chicken broth, you could use vegetable broth or water to reduce the calorie count. You could also reduce the amount of olive oil used or use cooking spray to sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger. Lastly, you could add more spinach and reduce the amount of rice used to make the dish more veggie-forward and lower in calories. These substitutions will make the dish healthier without compromising on the taste.
What to serve with a nigerian spinach rice?
Nigerian spinach rice is a flavorful and nutritious main dish that can be complemented with several side dishes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a medley of roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini would add a colorful and healthy touch to the meal. Grilled chicken or fish would also make a great protein source to balance out the rice, while plantains or yams could provide a starchy and satisfying addition. For a complete Nigerian-inspired meal, try serving the spinach rice with some spicy beef or chicken stew and fried plantains.
Whats the best sauce for a nigerian spinach rice?
The best sauce for Nigerian spinach rice is Egusi stew. Egusi stew is a thick and hearty soup made with ground melon seeds, onions, tomatoes, and various spices. The nutty flavor of the egusi seeds pairs well with the fresh spinach and the fluffy rice. The stew is typically made with chicken or beef and can be spiced up with chili peppers or other hot spices for those who prefer their food with a bit of a kick. Overall, Egusi stew is a delicious and versatile sauce that is perfect for Nigerian spinach rice.
Nigerian spinach rice health benefits
Nigerian spinach rice has several health benefits. Spinach, the primary ingredient of the dish, is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and fiber. The brown rice used in the dish is also a good source of fiber and contains complex carbohydrates that can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, the use of tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the recipe provides additional vitamins and minerals. Overall, Nigerian spinach rice can be a nutritious and delicious meal option. However, if someone is looking for a different recipe that is even healthier, they may consider a quinoa and vegetable stir-fry or a black bean and sweet potato chili. Both of these dishes are high in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals while being low in fat and calories.