In brief
- Jollof spaghetti: spicy pasta in jollof tomato sauce, the urban version of jollof rice
- Origin: contemporary Nigeria, popularised in the 2010s
- Essential ingredients: spaghetti, tomato, scotch bonnet, chicken, onion, jollof spice
- Setting: a quick dinner, a student meal, a modern family version
Origins and cultural history of Jollof Spaghetti
Jollof spaghetti is a contemporary innovation of Nigerian cuisine, born in the 2010s in universities and big cities (Lagos, Abuja). Taking the aromatic base of traditional jollof rice, it swaps the rice for spaghetti for a quicker dish to prepare. Very popular among the young Nigerian diaspora in France and Europe, it is the meal par excellence for evenings with friends.
Essential ingredients of Jollof Spaghetti
- Spaghetti: 400 g
- Tomato paste: 400 g
- Cubed chicken: 500 g
- Scotch bonnet pepper: 2
- Onion, garlic, ginger
- Jollof spice mix: 1 teaspoon
Nutritional benefits of Jollof Spaghetti
A complete and comforting dish. The spaghetti provides energy in complex carbohydrates, the chicken supplies protein, the tomato is rich in lycopene. At 460 kcal/serving, it is a balanced dish, ideal for active people.
Frequently asked questions
Can jollof spaghetti be made vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms and smoked tofu. The aromatic base stays the same.
Which brand of pasta should I use?
Classic spaghetti (Barilla, De Cecco) work well. Cooking al dente is recommended.
Where can I find jollof spice mix in France?
On nkosiagro.com, in the spices and condiments collection.
