Lagos is loud, fast, and full of life. Everyone knows that. While a chunk of people complains about the agberos and the bus conductors, who are sometimes a pain in the ass, many still enjoy the hassle of Lagos: the nightlife, the street food, the people and the culture.
If you’re staying on an Airbnb, you have a unique opportunity: you can cook and experience Lagos like tourists rarely do. The ingredients are easy to get; you can handpick them from stores or significant markets. If you’re planning your Lagos trip, join our waitlist for exclusive Airbnb stays with fully equipped kitchens.
Now, let’s get cooking.
1. Jollof Rice – The One-Pot Wonder
Estimated Cook Time: 50 minutes | Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
If there’s one dish you must cook in Lagos, it’s Jollof rice. This tomato-based rice dish is a West African favorite, and in Nigeria, it’s practically a national treasure.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
- 4 fresh tomatoes
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 onion (chopped, divided into two parts)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for the classic smoky flavor)
- 2 seasoning cubes
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
Step 1 (5 min): Blend the Necessary
- Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, and half of the chopped onions into a smooth mix. (Use an electric blender)
Step 2 (5 min): Build the Flavor
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat and fry the remaining chopped onions until golden.
- Stir in tomato paste and fry for 3-4 minutes until it darkens.
Step 3 (10 min): Add the Blended Mix
- Pour in the blended tomato mix. Add thyme, curry, smoked paprika, and seasoning cubes.
- Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4 (10 min): Add Rice & Broth
- Rinse rice to remove excess starch, then add it to the pot.
- Pour in the broth, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20 minutes.
Step 5 (20 min): The Magic Happens
- Check the rice—if it’s still hard, add a splash of water and let it steam for 5 more minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and let the smoky aroma hit you!
Best Served With: Fried plantains and grilled chicken.
📺 Watch This: Jollof Rice Recipe Video
2. Yam & Egg Sauce – The Ultimate Airbnb Breakfast
Estimated Cook Time: 20 minutes | Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
Nothing beats waking up to the smell of fresh eggs sizzling in a pan. Yam & egg sauce is a traditional breakfast in Nigeria, and it is ridiculously easy to prepare in your Airbnb kitchen.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 medium-sized yam
- 3 eggs
- 1 onion
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 chili pepper (optional)
- 1 seasoning cube
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
Step 1 (5 min): Prep the Yam
- Peel and slice the yam into thick rounds (like potato slices).
Step 2 (20 min): Boil the Yam
- Place yam in a pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Boil for 20 minutes until soft.
Step 3 (5 min): Make the Egg Sauce
- Heat oil in a pan and add sliced onions, tomatoes, and chili pepper for 3 minutes.
- Mix eggs, season with salt and a seasoning cube, then pour into the pan.
- Scramble for 2 minutes until fluffy.
Best Served With: A cup of hot tea or freshly brewed Nigerian coffee.
📺 Watch This: Egg Sauce & Yam Recipe Video
3. Nigerian-Style Pasta – A Quick & Flavorful Dinner
Estimated Cook Time: 25 minutes | Skill Level: Super Easy
Who doesn’t love a quick, flavorful pasta dish? In Lagos, we add a spicy, smoky twist that makes this the perfect Airbnb meal after a long day exploring the city.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups pasta (spaghetti or macaroni)
- 1 onion
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Protein of choice (shredded chicken, sausage, or shrimp)
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
Step 1 (10 min): Boil the Pasta
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water, then drain.
Step 2 (10 min): Make the Sauce
- Heat oil and sauté onions, tomatoes, and chili powder.
- Add curry powder and stir well.
🥄 Step 3 (5 min): Toss Everything Together
- Mix the pasta with the sauce and stir in your protein.
📺 Watch This: Nigerian Pasta Recipe Video
Where to Buy Fresh Ingredients in Lagos
If you’re near Oshodi, check out its bustling market for fresh yams and tomatoes. If you prefer a supermarket? Try:
- Shoprite & Spar – For packaged goods and fresh produce.
- Mile 12 Market – For the best deals on vegetables.
- Balogun Market – A local favorite for spices and meats.
Love cooking? Our Airbnb listings come with fully equipped kitchens. Join the waitlist for the best stays in Lagos.
Food is one of the best ways to connect with a place. Whether you’re making a pot of Jollof rice, a comforting plate of yam and egg sauce, or a quick pasta dinner, these meals bring you closer to the heart of Lagos.
