Jollof Rice

Jollof rice is one of the most beloved dishes in West Africa. It is a one-pot rice dish cooked in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. Jollof rice is bright red-orange in color and is full of flavor. Countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal all make jollof rice, and there is a friendly rivalry about which country makes it best.

How Jollof Rice Is Made

Jollof rice starts with a sauce made from blended tomatoes, onions, and peppers. The sauce is cooked down until thick and flavorful. Rice is added directly to the sauce along with spices like thyme, curry powder, and bay leaves. The pot is covered tightly and the rice cooks slowly, absorbing all the flavors of the tomato sauce. The bottom of the pot gets a slightly smoky, crispy layer that many people fight over.

The Jollof Rice Rivalry

Nigeria and Ghana have a famous friendly competition over who makes the best jollof rice. Nigerians say their version with its smoky, party-style flavor is the best. Ghanaians claim their version, often made with basmati rice, is superior. Senegalese people say they invented jollof rice, so theirs is the original. This fun rivalry plays out on social media and at cooking competitions.

Fun Facts

• The friendly jollof rice rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana is one of the biggest food debates in Africa.
• Jollof rice is named after the Wolof people of Senegal.
• Jollof rice is the most popular dish at parties and celebrations in West Africa.

Did You Know?

Jollof rice gets its name from the Jolof Empire, which existed in West Africa from the 1300s to the 1800s!