World Jollof Rice Day, 2023

August 22, 2023

8 Fun Facts About Jollof Rice

Every year on August 22nd, people gather to celebrate World Jollof Day. It’s a designated day for honoring this incredibly delicious dish. However, do we truly understand the origins, historical context, and evolution of Jollof Rice? This isn’t exactly a deep dive into the history of jollof but you will get to learn some interesting and fun facts about this special meal.

Image from Asanka Cuisine

Here are 8 fun facts about Jollof Rice you probably didn’t know:

Nigerian Jollof Rice is the best: The jollof war between Nigeria and Ghana has been going on for years, but we all know Nigeria deserves that trophy. I mean, have you tasted Naija party jollof? Always yummy! It’s also safe to say this ‘Jollof War’ has united both countries more than any other African country. Check here for tips on how to make yummy smoky jollof rice.
Jollof Rice originated from Wolof Empire: Jollof rice is originally from the Senegambian region of West Africa, which was ruled by Jolof Empire (also known as Wolof Empire). The way Nigerians and Ghanaians fight over it, one would think the dish belong to one of those countries.
Image from Trip down memory lane
Jollof Rice was a fish based recipe: As we celebrate World Jollof Day, have it in mind that this delicious dish used to be a fish based recipe due to its origin – the Senegal region, but overtime, people started incorporating other proteins like chicken and beef.
Jollof dance: There is a routine dance specially for jollof rice (fun fact, remember?). I bet this fact is new to to you!
Jambalaya Jollof: Jollof rice played a significant role in inspiring the creation of the American dish called Jambalaya, sometimes even called “American Jollof.” The main contrast is that Jambalaya incorporates plenty of protein, such as shrimp and diced sausage, which are layered on top of the rice.
Jambalaya Rice | Image from Recipe Critique
Party Jollof over Homemade: There’s no arguing about it. Party jollof rice simply tastes much better than the one prepared at home. Could the secret ingredients be the abundant love that many people pour into cooking it for the occasion?
Jollof bottom is top tier: The lower or slightly burnt section of jollof rice is consistently sweeter than the upper part. I personally think it’s because that’s where all the ingredients settle.
The most popular dish in West Africa: Jollof rice stands as one of West Africa’s most beloved foods. Across the region, it takes on various names and ingredient variations. For instance, in Mali, it’s known as “zaamè” in the Bamanankan language.