IShowSpeed's Father Settles Jollof Rice Debate with Blind Taste Test Verdict
In a viral moment that has reignited the long-standing culinary rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, Darren Watkins Sr., popularly known as Daddy Speed and father of American streamer IShowSpeed, recently took part in a blind taste test comparing the two nations' versions of jollof rice. The test was conducted during a livestream where IShowSpeed presented his dad with two plates of the iconic West African dish, asking him to judge without prior knowledge of which country each sample originated from.
The Taste Test Process and Daddy Speed's Detailed Analysis
Daddy Speed carefully sampled both plates, taking his time to savour the flavours, textures, and aromas of each jollof rice dish. He noted that while both dishes shared a similar base of rice cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, there were notable differences in preparation that influenced his final decision. After pausing to reflect on the seasoning and consistency following each bite, he ultimately declared the Nigerian jollof as the winner.
He described the Nigerian plate as having bolder seasoning and a richer taste that lingered more satisfyingly on the palate. Additionally, he praised the tender grains and smoky depth that made the Nigerian version stand out in the comparison. This verdict aligned with IShowSpeed's own experiences during his Africa tour in January 2026, where he first tried Nigerian jollof in Lagos and later compared it to Ghanaian jollof in Accra, stating a clear preference for the Nigerian style.
Online Reactions and the Reignited Jollof Wars
The video of the taste test quickly gained massive traction online, sparking a flood of reactions from fans across social media platforms. Many celebrated Daddy Speed's conclusion, while others contested the outcome, adding fuel to the friendly banter that has long characterized the jollof wars across West Africa. Netizens shared diverse opinions, with some declaring the debate settled in favour of Nigeria, while others humorously noted the rising costs of jollof rice in upscale areas like Lekki and Victoria Island.
Comments ranged from playful jabs to serious culinary critiques, highlighting the cultural significance of jollof rice in the region. For instance, one user pointed out that Ghanaian jollof often requires shito (a spicy sauce) to enhance its flavour, whereas Nigerian jollof can stand alone without additional stews. Another user emphasized the superiority of Nigerian jollof, calling it disrespectful to even compare it to the Ghanaian version, while others simply appreciated the smoky quality that defines the Nigerian dish.
Background on IShowSpeed's Africa Tour and Cultural Immersion
This taste test moment is part of a broader context involving IShowSpeed's extensive 28-day journey across 20 African nations, which ran from December 29, 2025, to January 27, 2026. During this tour, he visited countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Morocco, Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Africa, immersing himself in local experiences and celebrating the continent's vibrant cultures. The tour was inspired by a desire to connect with his roots and explore the diversity of African traditions, food, and entertainment.
IShowSpeed has previously explained that his motivation for the tour was to return to the motherland and engage with African communities firsthand. This deep dive into cultural experiences, including food tastings like the jollof comparison, has helped foster greater global awareness and appreciation for African heritage, while also generating engaging content for his vast online audience.
