Chef Hilda Baci and her team prepared the world’s biggest pot of jollof rice in Lagos, Nigeria, on Friday, September 12, 2025. AP
Guinness World Records confirmed on Monday that Nigerian chef Hilda Baci has achieved a remarkable milestone. Her jollof rice, cooked in Lagos last Friday, now holds the record for the world’s largest serving. Guinness listed the dish at an astonishing 8,780 kilograms, equal to 19,356 pounds and nine ounces.
Celebration and recognition
Baci proudly announced the news on X, saying, “We have done it again.” She called the achievement a continuation of her journey, referencing her earlier record in 2023 when she cooked for 93 hours and 11 minutes in a marathon session. That title was later claimed by Irish chef Alan Fisher, but Baci’s new accomplishment has once again placed her in the spotlight.
This recognition came just days before her 30th birthday, making the honour even more special. Thousands gathered to watch her prepare the massive dish, which required extraordinary amounts of ingredients and determination.
Ingredients on a massive scale
Baci cooked her jollof rice in a pot six metres wide. To create the dish, she used about five tonnes of basmati rice, 600 kilograms of onions, and 750 kilograms of cooking oil. All the ingredients were mixed with tomato sauce, forming the base of this West African staple.
The event drew an estimated crowd of 8,000 people, who cheered throughout the long hours of preparation. The pot’s sheer size and the scale of the task left onlookers stunned as the dish slowly came together.
A dish with deep roots
Jollof rice remains one of West Africa’s most beloved meals. It is usually made by simmering rice in a spiced tomato sauce, often served with meat or fish. While every region has its own version, the dish’s origins trace back to the Wolof empire, which spanned modern-day Senegal, Mauritania, and Gambia in the 14th century.
At that time, rice cultivation thrived in the region, and locals created a dish called thiebou dieune, combining rice, seafood, and vegetables. As Wolof communities migrated across West Africa, the tradition spread and evolved, eventually giving rise to the many forms of jollof enjoyed today.
Friendly rivalry across borders
Today, Nigeria and Ghana famously argue over who makes the best jollof rice. This friendly rivalry often sparks debate among food lovers across the continent. However, Senegal has also gained recognition for its version. In 2021, Senegal’s recipe secured a place on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, further highlighting the dish’s cultural significance.
For Baci, however, the moment was not about competition but about pride, culture, and celebration. Her record-breaking effort has not only showcased Nigeria’s rich culinary traditions but also united thousands in joy and festivity.
