Michael Blackson, an American comedian with Ghanaian roots, recently shared his criteria for finding a life partner.
He humorously stated that the key to winning his heart is through the mastery of Ghana Jollof, a beloved and culturally significant dish in Ghana.
During an interview with Doreen Avio at his school’s 1st-anniversary celebrations in Agona Nsaba, Central Region, Blackson emphasized the importance of authentic Ghana Jollof as a requirement to capture his affection.
“Jollof test. You have to cook jollof and I have to taste it and it has to be great. I hang out with a lot of Nigerians, Sierra Leoneans, and even Chinese with fried rice. If my wife cannot represent my country with the perfect Ghana jollof, I can’t marry you,” he said
Mike mentioned that due to this particular criterion, he nearly lost his housekeeper as she prepared one of the most exquisite Jollof dishes he had ever savoured.
“I’m so close to marrying my housekeeper. She cooked some jollof the other day. It is part of the best jollof I have had in a very long time,” he added.
Origin of Jollof rice
Jollof Rice is said to have originated from Senegal, Mauritania, and Gambia. These countries are home to the Wolof ethnic group, and it is believed that the name “Jollof” is derived from this group. However, in these countries, Jollof Rice is not referred to as such.
Instead, it is known as Benachin or Thieboudienne, and there are notable differences in the way it is prepared. In these variations, fish and vegetables are used in the cooking process.
Therefore, while Jollof Rice can be traced back to these countries, it is evident that as the dish spread across West Africa, both the name and preparation methods underwent modifications.