In another pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes to deepen the flavor. Then, add the tomato and red bell pepper puree, stirring well to combine.
Add the blended scotch bonnet pepper (if desired) for some extra heat, paprika, thyme, curry powder, bay leaves, and salt. Mix the spices into the sauce and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Add the washed parboiled rice to the pot and stir it gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. Be careful not to break the rice grains.
Pour in enough water/stock to cover the rice, typically about 4 cups, but adjust as needed depending on the type of rice you're using. Stir well, then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to steam for about 30-40 minutes minutes or until it's cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Add the cooked black-eyed beans and mix them in gently to avoid mashing them.
Serve the Jollof Rice and Beans hot.