Nigerian Chef Hilda Baci Attempts World Record with Largest Pot of Jollof Rice

Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has attempted to set a new Guinness World Record by cooking the largest pot of jollof rice in history. The event, held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, attracted thousands of spectators and received support from government officials, celebrities, and fans.

Baci, who previously held the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon in 2023, aimed to showcase Nigerian culture and culinary excellence on a global scale. The massive pot, custom-made for the occasion, measured six metres wide and six metres tall, with a capacity of 22,619 litres. It required two months to fabricate and was designed to hold 4,000 kilogrammes of rice, 500 cartons of tomato paste, 600 kilogrammes of onions, and 750 kilogrammes of vegetable oil.

The cooking process, which lasted eight hours, was not without drama. During the weighing phase, the pot’s cover slipped loose, and its legs bent slightly, causing tension among the crowd. However, Baci’s team quickly stabilized the structure, and the event continued without further issues. The finished dish was packed into takeaway containers and distributed to attendees, with an estimated 20,000 people receiving portions.

The Federal Government of Nigeria praised Baci’s efforts, with the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, describing her attempt as “another testament to Nigeria’s global excellence.” He emphasized that her dedication reflects the resilience and creativity that define the Nigerian spirit.

Baci’s ambition extends beyond breaking records. She aims to inspire young Africans, particularly women, to pursue their dreams and showcase their talents on the world stage. Her previous record-breaking cookathon in 2023, which lasted 93 hours and 11 minutes, earned her national acclaim and sparked a wave of Guinness World Record attempts across Nigeria.

The Guinness World Records organization has acknowledged Baci’s latest attempt and will review evidence before confirming whether she has achieved the record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice.

Jollof rice, a beloved West African dish, is a source of regional pride and cultural identity. Baci’s attempt highlights its significance and celebrates Nigeria’s culinary heritage.