Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2 cups long-grain rice
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent.
1 onion, finely chopped, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, cloves, cardamom, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for a couple of minutes to release their flavors.
1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Add the chopped tomatoes, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2 tomatoes, chopped, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, 1 green bell pepper, chopped
Add the mixed vegetables and coconut milk to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), 1 cup coconut milk
Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the flavorful mixture.
Pour in enough water to cover the rice by about 1 inch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Salt and pepper to taste
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it sit for a few minutes to steam.
Serve the Cape Malay Jollof Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.