Nigerian Chef Takes on Epic Challenge: Crafting the World’s Largest Pot of Jollof Rice!

Nigerian chef Hilda Baci is aiming for another culinary milestone: making the world’s largest pot of jollof rice. This beloved West African dish has captured the hearts of many, and Baci’s latest challenge has drawn thousands to the streets of Lagos to witness her ambitious attempt.

Baci previously made headlines in 2023 when she set the record for the longest cooking marathon, lasting 93 hours and 11 minutes. This time, she has pushed the limits even further, preparing a colossal jollof rice meal that requires an incredible 4,000 kg (8,800 lb) of rice, 500 cartons of tomato paste, and 600 kg of onions. To accommodate this feast, a custom pot was built, holding nearly 23,000 liters!

This grand culinary project took Baci a year of meticulous planning. She expressed her pride in representing Nigeria, stating, “We are the giant of Africa, and jollof is a food that everybody knows Africans for.” She believes it’s a fitting tribute for her country to have the biggest pot of jollof rice.

Creating the massive pot involved a dedicated team of 300 people over two months. With oversized wooden spatulas in hand, Baci and her assistants worked tirelessly to prepare the dish, which was later shared with the community.

Jollof rice is much more than just a meal; it’s a cultural symbol in Nigeria and across West Africa. Traditionally made with rice cooked in a savory tomato sauce, it’s often enjoyed with meat or seafood. In 2021, Baci gained fame by winning a jollof competition, and she has since become a household name.

As interest in her latest attempt grows, it reflects a broader trend: social media celebrates culinary achievements, with hashtags often trending when big cooking events happen. The excitement on platforms like Twitter and Instagram shows just how much people love to connect over food.

With Baci’s pursuit of the jollof rice record, it’s clear that Nigerian cuisine continues to inspire and bring people together, celebrating both the dish and the rich culture it represents.

For more on the cultural significance of jollof rice in West Africa, check out this detailed report by the BBC.

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Hilda Baci, jollof rice, Nigerian cuisine, world record, Guinness World Record holder