Chef Hilda Baci, Nigeria’s culinary icon, has once again etched her name in the Guinness World Records. After making waves with her previous world records, she has now set the record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, a feat that has sparked excitement across Africa and beyond. This remarkable achievement was confirmed by Guinness World Records on Monday, following an extraordinary cooking event that took place in Victoria Island, Lagos.
On Friday, during a live cooking session at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, Hilda, in collaboration with Gino Nigeria, prepared a staggering 8,780 kg (19,356 lbs 9 oz) of jollof rice. The record-breaking feat was part of an 8-hour event that not only showcased Hilda’s unmatched culinary skills but also celebrated Nigeria’s vibrant food culture.
The jollof rice, a dish that has been at the center of the famous West African rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, was created using 4,000 kg of basmati rice, 164 kg of fresh goat meat, 220 kg of Gino Asun & Peppered Chicken Cubes, and an impressive 600 kg of her signature jollof pepper mix. These ingredients, combined with the fire and passion of the team, resulted in a meal that served 16,600 plates of jollof rice to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters.
To bring this grand feast to life, Hilda and her team worked tirelessly for nine hours, using 1,200 kg of gas to ensure every grain of rice was perfectly cooked. The event, which attracted hundreds of guests, was more than just a cooking demonstration—it was a celebration of community, culture, and unity. As the aroma of the jollof rice filled the air, Hilda shared a video on Instagram showing the moment when the first plates were served to the eager crowd, many of whom had waited patiently, anticipating the taste of this record-breaking dish.
Reflecting on her journey, Hilda said, “I didn’t realize how challenging it would be, but it’s been a truly satisfying experience. This record is not just mine—it belongs to all the people of Nigeria. Their support made it possible.”
This latest achievement follows Hilda’s 93-hour cooking marathon in May 2023, which gained widespread attention and made her an internet sensation. Despite being surpassed by new record-holders in the longest cooking marathon category, Hilda’s passion and dedication to breaking barriers continue to inspire. In October 2023, Alan Fisher of Ireland broke the marathon record with 119 hours 57 minutes, only for Evette Quoibia of Australia to push it further in February 2024 with 140 hours 11 minutes.
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But for now, Hilda’s largest serving of jollof rice stands as a monumental achievement for both her and Nigeria, reaffirming her position as one of Africa’s most innovative chefs. The Nigerian jollof rice debate, which has long been a topic of passionate discussion between Nigeria and Ghana, has found a new champion, with Hilda proudly representing her home country on the global stage.
This record-breaking event has not only placed Hilda Baci back in the global spotlight but has also reinforced Nigeria’s culinary prowess. The jollof rice rivalry is far from over, but for now, Hilda Baci’s victory is undeniable.
Hilda’s journey continues to inspire a new generation of chefs, food enthusiasts, and aspiring record-breakers, making her a true ambassador of Nigerian cuisine and culture.
