Today is World Jollof Rice day 

Jollof rice has become more and more popular not just in West Africa but all over the world. 

The August 22, of every year is regarded as the World Jollof Rice Day. It is a day that is set aside to celebrate this very wonderful cuisine. 

But do we really understand where, when and how this favorite food came about. 

The points of origin of the dish are hotly debated among Ghanaians and Nigerians, each claiming to be the original inventors of the Jollof rice. 

Jollof rice is one of the most common dishes in Western Africa, consumed throughout the region including Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Togo, Cameroon, and Mali. 

There are several regional variations in name and ingredients, with non-local versions regarded as "inauthentic". 

The rich orange-red delicacy made from rice and a spicy stew mixing tomato, onions, meat or fish, its origins, and how best to prepare it, have been the subject of fierce dispute over the years.

Every country has its own version, and abhors ‘inauthentic’ variations.
 
In Ghana, jollof is eaten on its own or with fried plantains and “the addition of green, leafy plants is much frowned upon.”

The name Jollof rice is said to be derived from the name of the Wolof people, though now called theibou dienn or benachin. 

In French-speaking areas, it is called riz au gras. 

This popularity has led to many variations of this dish is loved by all. 

Despite the variations, the dish is "mutually intelligible" across the region, and has spread along with the diaspora to become the best known African dish outside the continent.

Every culture has a sacrosanct recipe passed down from generation to generation. But few cause as much controversy as jollof rice, West Africa’s beloved staple dish.

In Nigeria, diners balk at adding garlic, carrots, green beans or cabbage.

So, on the occasion of World Jollof Rice Day, which is being celebrated by Africans at home and in the diaspora, don’t mess with West Africans favourite recipe.

GBC