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Hilda Baci's Attempt for the World's Largest Jollof Rice Dish

9/14/2025, 7:52:54 PM

Overview of the Record Attempt

Nigerian chef Hilda Baci, known for her culinary achievements, recently attempted to set a Guinness World Record for the largest pot of jollof rice. The event, dubbed the "Gino World Jollof Festival with Hilda Baci," took place at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, attracting over 20,000 registered attendees. Baci's ambitious recipe included 4,000 kilograms of basmati rice, 500 cartons of tomato paste, 600 kilograms of onions, and 168 kilograms of goat meat, all prepared in a custom-made pot with a capacity of 23,000 liters.

The Cooking Process and Challenges

The cooking marathon lasted approximately nine hours, during which Baci and her team of ten chefs stirred the massive pot using giant spatulas. However, as the pot was being lifted for weighing, one side buckled, causing the supporting legs to bend. Despite the tense moment, the food remained intact, and the team quickly transitioned to serving the cooked jollof rice in takeaway portions to the eager crowd.

Community Engagement and Support

The event garnered significant attention on social media, with notable figures such as Nollywood star Funke Akindele and Ogun State First Lady Bamidele Abiodun in attendance. Akindele praised Baci's resilience, encouraging young women to pursue their ambitions. The atmosphere was festive, with music and dancing accompanying the culinary spectacle.

Official Statements and Future Prospects

Guinness World Records acknowledged Baci's attempt on social media, expressing support and wishing her luck. Baci's team is currently compiling evidence from various cameras at the event to submit for official recognition. Baci emphasized that her goal extended beyond breaking records; it was about celebrating Nigerian culture and feeding the community.

Criticism and Opposition

While the event was largely celebrated, some critics pointed out the logistical challenges and safety concerns associated with such a large-scale cooking endeavor. The near-collapse of the pot during the weigh-in raised questions about the structural integrity of the setup and the planning involved.

Awaiting Confirmation from Guinness World Records

As of now, the outcome of Baci's record attempt remains pending. The team is hopeful that their efforts will be recognized, despite the hiccups during the event. Baci's previous achievement of the longest cooking marathon in 2023, where she cooked for 93 hours and 11 minutes, has set a precedent for her ambitious culinary endeavors.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “It was challenging but exciting. My mind feels at ease. When I came up with this idea, I didn’t think of it as a world record,” — Hilda Baci, Chef
  • “Best of luck to Hilda Baci, who’s attempting a new record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice today.” — Guinness World Records

Hilda Baci's attempt to create the world's largest jollof rice dish not only showcases her culinary skills but also highlights the rich cultural heritage of Nigerian cuisine, aiming to inspire future generations.