Riz Gras, translating to "fat rice," is a cherished dish from Burkina Faso, West Africa. This one-pot meal is hearty, flavorful, and rich, often enjoyed during celebrations. Combining rice, vegetables, and spiced meat, Riz Gras is a wholesome dish that's easy to prepare yet deeply satisfying.

Ingredients:

2 lb (1 kg) chicken or beef, cut into chunks

2 cups (400 g) long-grain rice

3 tablespoons (45 ml) vegetable oil

1 lb (500 g) tomatoes, blended or finely chopped

1/2 lb (250 g) carrots, diced

1/2 lb (250 g) cabbage, chopped

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon (5 g) ground ginger

1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika

1 teaspoon (5 g) cayenne pepper (optional)

4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth

2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the chicken or beef chunks on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the ground ginger, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.

Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the blended or chopped tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate.

Simmer with Broth: Add the browned meat back to the pot along with the broth and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Rice: Stir in the carrots, cabbage, and rice. Season with salt and pepper. Ensure the liquid covers the ingredients; add more water or broth if needed.

Cook the Rice: Cover the pot and let it simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the Riz Gras rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Serving: Serve Riz Gras warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It's perfect as a standalone meal, feeding 4-6 people. Pair it with a side of salad or fresh bread for a complete dining experience.

Riz Gras is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the heart of West African cuisine. With its rich combination of meat, vegetables, and spiced rice, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings. Try it today and savor a taste of Burkina Faso!