Jollof Rice with Beef

1. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook and stir until softened, about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste and cayenne pepper; cook, stirring constantly, until dark and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, 3/4 cup water, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat.

2. While the tomato mixture is simmering, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a separate pot. Season stew meat with salt and pepper, then add to the pot and cook until browned, 1 to 2 minutes per side.

3. Stir meat into simmering tomato mixture. Add jasmine rice and pour in enough water to cover. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until meat and rice are tender, about 30 minutes.

Tips

You can use chicken or fish instead of the beef, or you can leave it out completely.