When travelers think of West African cuisine, dishes like jollof rice, suya, and egusi soup often come to mind. But tucked into the bustling food streets of Lagos, Accra, and beyond is another beloved favorite: Jollof Spaghetti. A playful and mouthwatering twist on the iconic jollof rice, this dish is fast becoming a staple for food lovers exploring the region.
The Story Behind Jollof Spaghetti
Jollof rice has long been the crown jewel of West African cuisine, sparking friendly rivalries between Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal over who makes it best. Jollof Spaghetti takes that same rich, spicy tomato base and uses pasta instead of rice. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that captures the essence of jollof while giving travelers a new way to taste the region’s flavors.
For many locals, it’s a go-to comfort food: easy to prepare, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. You’ll find it at roadside bukas (local canteens), stylish Lagos restaurants, or served hot in homes as the perfect weekday meal.
How It’s Prepared
The magic of Jollof Spaghetti lies in its vibrant tomato sauce, which mirrors the base of traditional jollof rice. Here’s a simple preparation method you’ll encounter while traveling West Africa:
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti (500g)
- Fresh tomatoes (4–5 large) or tomato paste
- Red bell peppers (2)
- Scotch bonnet peppers (1–2, depending on spice preference)
- Onion (1 large)
- Garlic (2 cloves)
- Cooking oil
- Seasoning cubes or powder
- Salt to taste
- Protein of choice (chicken, beef, shrimp, or eggs)
- Optional: mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, sweetcorn)
Method:
- Cook the spaghetti: In salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Blend the base: Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, scotch bonnets, and half the onion until smooth.
- Prepare the sauce: Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions and garlic, then pour in the blended mix. Fry until the raw tomato taste disappears and the sauce thickens.
- Season generously: Add seasoning cubes, salt, and spices to taste. Stir well.
- Add protein and vegetables: Toss in your choice of meat, shrimp, or boiled eggs. Some locals add mixed veggies for extra color and nutrition.
- Combine with pasta: Finally, stir in the cooked spaghetti until it’s fully coated in the rich, spicy sauce.
The result? A fiery, savory, and slightly smoky dish that embodies the boldness of West African flavors.
Where to Try Jollof Spaghetti
- Lagos, Nigeria: Street vendors and local bukas serve some of the most authentic versions, often with grilled chicken or fried fish.
- Accra, Ghana: Trendy restaurants put gourmet spins on the dish, pairing it with seafood or plantains.
- Home kitchens across the region: Perhaps the best place to experience it—cooked with love and served family-style.
Jollof Spaghetti is more than just pasta—it’s a culinary bridge between tradition and modern tastes. For travelers exploring West Africa, it’s a must-try dish that offers both comfort and adventure on a plate. Whether you enjoy it roadside or in a chic city eatery, this fiery spaghetti will leave you craving seconds and maybe even attempting it back home.
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