The first World Jollof Rice day happened last year. I kept thinking to myself why wasn’t this even done earlier? No matter what, it’s never too late to dedicate a day to celebrate Jollof Rice. Jollof rice is a dish that once you learn to make it, you officially receive the honorary title of being a great cook. I also find that Jollof Rice no matter how standardized the recipe will always taste slightly different the next time you make it. It just always keeps getting better.
There are several variations of the dish but the constants are Tomato and Rice. You can’t go wrong with that combination. East Africans have a subtle version of Jollof rice called Pilaf but may never admit it. These two rice dishes are however in different leagues. Latin Americans have a similar dish called Paella. While Paella is tasty, it can’t come close to Jollof. No offense to my Paella loving followers :). Nigerians have also experimented with Native Jollof Rice, Oven Baked Jollof Rice, Party Jollof Rice, Pineapple Jollof Rice, Coconut Jollof Rice (recipe coming soon) amongst other recipes.
Many have debated about who has the best Jollof Rice in West Africa. While the stronger arguments are between Nigeria and Ghana, countries like Senegal where Jollof Rice originated stay true to their original Jollof roots. Jollof rice is the foundation of our food existence in West Africa. Whilst we share many similar dishes, Jollof Rice is the one thing that has managed to stay consistent and thrived through the years. The parties you have graced, the homes you have visited, the tummies you have made happy, you deserve the best today Jollof. Today is your day.
Here are some interesting facts about World Jollof Rice Day
- Jollof Rice has a birthday and it’s August 22nd
- The first Jollof Rice birthday was celebrated in 2015
- The first Jollof Rice exhibition took place in 2015
- Afrolems is a loyal follower and lover of Jollof Rice and that is the only fact to take note of lol.
Enjoy our dedication to Jollof Rice on this World Jollof Rice Day
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