Naija or Ghana; Who Owns That Jollof?
The age-old battle between Nigerians and Ghanaians over who
originally owned Jollof rice is well known. In fact, not only can we not reach
a compromise about its originality, but we also can’t seem to agree on who has
it tastier.
 |
| Nigerian Jollof |
Na wa oo.
Naija Jollof usually contains many tomatoes, peppers and
onions, assorted meat, spices and condiments, meat stock, bay leaf, vegetables, and
vegetable oil. A well-made Naija Jollof usually has a smoky flavone and may be
accompanied by fried meat, fresh vegetables, and drinks.
How delicious!
Ghana Jollof on the other hand is the same process except
that they tend to favor the more aromatic and flavorful Basmati rice or Jasmine
rice, over the regular and sturdy long-grain rice that Nigerians prefer.
Based on these descriptions alone, which do you think takes
the prize?
Irrespective of which Jollof we think is tastier (“tastier”
because they’re both delicious is a given), history has it that Jollof rice
originally originated from a large ethnic group in Senegal, parts of Gambia,
and Southern Mauritania.
 |
| Ghana Jollof |
These people were called the Wolof Tribe.
Surprised? I was too.
Picture this: Senegal watching Nigeria and Ghana drag
proprietary rights over Jollof rice with an indulgent smile on its face as an
elder would wear watching two adorable children bicker, knowing that they’re both
in the wrong, but, you know, it’s quite cute to watch, so let them.
Have you experienced both Jollof experiences? Have you ever
tasted the real original; Wolof?
