Celebrity chef Hilda Baci, holder of the Guinness World Record for cooking the largest pot of jollof rice, recently held a press conference with Gino at their Nigeria office in Lagos. Baci shared insights into her record-breaking feat, personal inspirations, and future plans.
By: Mandy Park
The Record-Breaking Feat
Baci’s massive pot of jollof rice weighed an impressive 8,780 kilogrammes (19,356 lb 9 oz), achieved in partnership with Gino. The pot, she revealed, represents history, faith, and innovation, symbolizing Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage.
The Pot’s Fate
Contrary to numerous offers, Baci announced that the giant pot won’t be sold or auctioned. Instead, it will be refurbished and displayed publicly as a national and global symbol of significance. “The pot will be restored to its original form, and I hope it will become a landmark achievement that people can point to for years to come,” she stated.
Inspiration and Future Plans
Baci credited her mother for unwavering support, saying, “I will always express my gratitude to my mother for her unwavering support and love.” Her plan is to make the pot a lasting source of inspiration, potentially displaying it in a museum or public space for everyone to see.
Celebrating Nigerian Cuisine
Baci emphasized that Nigerian food is deeply tied to memory, culture, and innovation. She recalled how mastering jollof rice wasn’t easy initially, but she realized it’s more than just a dish – it’s an experience. The record-breaking combo of Gino Party Jollof, Gino Asun, and pepper chicken pastes represents staples of Nigerian culinary culture.
Partnership with Gino
Baci praised the collaboration with Gino, highlighting its significance in showcasing Nigeria’s culinary heritage and innovation. The partnership, she noted, allowed her to push boundaries and demonstrate that Nigerian food is not just local, but global.
