Quote from Alex bobby on September 14, 2025, 3:03 AM

Nigerian Chef Hilda Baci Attempts to Make the World’s Largest Pot of Jollof Rice

In a spectacular culinary spectacle that captivated thousands of spectators, Nigerian chef and former Guinness World Record holder Hilda Baci has attempted to set another ambitious record — this time for the world’s largest pot of jollof rice, one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes.

The event, held in Lagos, attracted food lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and curious onlookers eager to witness what could become another historic culinary feat for Nigeria. Known for her relentless determination and vibrant personality, Baci once again demonstrated her passion for pushing boundaries and showcasing Nigerian cuisine on the global stage.

A Record-Breaking Mindset

Hilda Baci is no stranger to the world of records. In 2023, she made international headlines after completing a 93-hour and 11-minute cooking marathon, earning her a Guinness World Record and propelling her into the spotlight as a symbol of Nigerian resilience and talent.

For her latest attempt, Baci set her sights on something even more massive — literally. She sought to create the largest single pot of jollof rice ever cooked, a dish that is not just food but a cultural symbol across West Africa, particularly in Nigeria.

Speaking to BBC Pidgin, the 28-year-old chef explained the motivation behind this endeavor:

“We are the giant of Africa, and jollof is a food that everybody knows Africans for. It would make sense if we had the biggest pot of jollof rice — it would be nice for the country.”

Her words reflect a blend of national pride and culinary ambition. For Baci, this challenge was about more than just size; it was about showcasing Nigeria’s rich food culture and uniting people around something deeply familiar and beloved.

A Year of Planning and a Mountain of Ingredients

Attempting such a monumental feat did not happen overnight. Baci revealed that she spent an entire year meticulously planning the record attempt, from sourcing ingredients to designing a pot capable of holding an enormous quantity of food.

Her gigantic jollof recipe featured:

• 4,000 kilograms (8,800 pounds) of rice
• 500 cartons of tomato paste
• 600 kilograms of onions
• Industrial quantities of spices, peppers, oil, and stock

To handle this extraordinary amount, a custom-made steel pot with a 23,000-litre capacity was commissioned. Manufacturing this colossal vessel alone took a culinary engineering team of 300 people two months to complete — a feat of engineering as much as cooking.

The Cooking Marathon: A Festival of Food and Culture

On the day of the event, the atmosphere in Lagos was electric. Thousands gathered as Baci and her team began the marathon cooking session. Armed with massive wooden spatulas and coordinated like a choreographed dance troupe, the assistants worked tirelessly to stir and manage the colossal simmering dish.

The process took several hours of constant stirring and temperature control, ensuring the rice was evenly cooked and perfectly infused with the rich tomato-based sauce that defines authentic Nigerian jollof.

For spectators, it was more than a cooking demonstration — it was a celebration of Nigerian culture, community, and culinary heritage. Drums and music filled the air, and the smell of spices wafted across the venue as cheers erupted every time a new batch of ingredients was added to the pot.

Awaiting Guinness World Records’ Verdict

While the attempt has made waves on social media and captured global attention, the feat must still be verified by the Guinness World Records organisation. Inspectors will review video footage, ingredient logs, weight measurements, and witness testimonies to confirm whether Baci’s jollof rice truly qualifies as the largest ever cooked in a single pot.

Regardless of the outcome, the attempt itself has already cemented its place as one of the most memorable culinary events in Nigeria’s recent history. It has showcased not just the technical skill involved in preparing such a dish at scale, but also the logistical and organisational prowess required to coordinate hundreds of people and thousands of kilograms of ingredients.

Sharing the Jollof With the People

After the cooking was complete and the necessary measurements had been taken, the massive pot was opened to the public. Baci’s crowning dish was served to the crowd, ensuring that none of the effort — or food — went to waste.

Attendees lined up to taste the record-breaking creation, many capturing photos and videos as they savoured spoonfuls of the steamy, tomato-infused rice. The event not only delighted taste buds but also sparked discussions about the global recognition of African cuisine and its potential to draw culinary tourism to Nigeria.

A Legacy of Nigerian Culinary Excellence

Jollof rice is more than just a dish in Nigeria — it is a staple of family gatherings, festive celebrations, and national pride. Typically made by simmering rice in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, and often paired with chicken, fish, or beef, it has become a symbol of West African identity.

Baci’s decision to attempt the world’s largest pot of jollof rice speaks to her ongoing mission to promote Nigerian food culture internationally. She first rose to fame after winning a jollof rice competition in 2021, and her record-breaking cooking marathon in 2023 made her a household name.

This latest challenge reinforces her reputation as a fearless culinary innovator — one who sees food not just as sustenance, but as a powerful medium for cultural expression and unity.

Looking Forward

As the world awaits Guinness World Records’ official confirmation, all eyes remain on Hilda Baci and what she might tackle next. Her record-breaking spirit and dedication to promoting Nigerian cuisine hint that this may only be the beginning of even more ambitious culinary feats.

Her attempt has already sparked renewed global interest in West African food, and many hope it will pave the way for more international recognition of Nigerian chefs and culinary traditions. Looking ahead, Baci’s journey could inspire a new generation of young African chefs to dream bigger, push boundaries, and proudly showcase their cultural heritage to the world.

With her unwavering drive and creativity, Hilda Baci is poised to continue redefining what’s possible in the world of food — one historic dish at a time.

Final Thoughts

Whether or not Guinness World Records confirms her achievement, Hilda Baci’s attempt has already succeeded in bringing Nigerians together in celebration and pride. It showcased the creativity, teamwork, and ambition that define Nigeria’s vibrant culinary scene.

As thousands of people left the event with full stomachs and wide smiles, one thing became clear: Baci has once again stirred more than just a pot — she has stirred the hearts of a nation.

Conclusion

Hilda Baci’s audacious attempt to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice is more than a quest for another Guinness World Record — it’s a powerful statement of Nigerian pride, resilience, and cultural unity. Through her meticulous planning, extraordinary teamwork, and boundless determination, she has shown how food can transcend its role as mere sustenance to become a symbol of national identity.

Whether or not her achievement is officially recognised, Baci has once again inspired millions by celebrating the richness of Nigerian cuisine on a global stage. Her giant pot of jollof has not only fed thousands but also reignited a collective sense of joy and pride — proving that when passion meets purpose, the results can be truly monumental.

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Nigerian chef Hilda Baci, famed for her 93-hour cooking marathon, has attempted to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice in Lagos, using 4,000kg of rice and a custom 23,000-litre pot to celebrate Nigerian culinary pride.