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About

Welcome to my virtual kitchen!

My name is Lola, and this is the space where I share my fast, easy, family-friendly meals!

I’m the wife of one amazing man who, despite his busy schedule, takes his time to be the photographer and tech guy behind this blog. Plus, he’s my number one fan. I’m also the mom to three adorable kids, ten years and under, who love to dictate the meals I make (super busy momma!).

I’m happiest when I’m investing time in what matters most to me - family, health, career, personal growth, friends, and adventures, engaging in great conversation over a meal I just prepared, crossing something off my bucket list - like learning to ride a scooter! and being the reason behind the priceless look of joy on someone’s face. But I remind myself to choose happiness on laundry day, too!

Lola Osinkolu

A little bit of background …

I was born and raised in Nigeria, and this has greatly influenced what and how I cook. I mainly cook from scratch using fresh and minimally processed produce and cost-effective everyday ingredients that are readily available in your pantry or can easily be found at your local grocer.

I use a global approach to cooking, which helps expand the palate. While I cook indigenous African recipes, a lot of my dishes appeal to a broader audience. I have a wide range of recipes that will please seafood, chicken, or beef lovers, vegetarians, and the pickiest eater at your table.

My passion for cooking started at a very early age. My dad thinks I was about six, but I cannot remember a time before I started cooking. The passion and love I had for food in my childhood days have not yet changed; in fact, it continues to grow.

I'm a self-taught baker. Though both my late grandmother and my aunt were bakers, I did not learn any skills from them. I guess it runs in the blood!

I got my first job as a restaurant manager before moving to the States to join my husband. When I got to the States, I knew I wanted to pursue my passions. I had to choose between cooking and sewing (yes, I sew!). I chose cooking, and blogging has become my outlet to share my recipes.

Other things to know about me …

  • I cooked a meal for a crowd of about 20 people at the age of 8 - a traditional Nigerian meal called Amala, made by stirring yam flour into hot water until a doughy lump is formed.
  • My love for sewing remains, and I still sew when I can. I love making dresses for my little princess and myself. However, I’m not so good at sewing for boys and men. But I recently challenged myself and made a shirt for my son for the first time. I was proud of my results and so happy I made it.
  • I studied Geology and Mineral Science in college but have never worked in that field (by choice).
  • I'm quite shy, but if you’ve only known me recently, you may not notice because I'm getting better.
  • I have a weakness for freshly baked goods - I think I got that from my grandma! So you will find a lot of baking recipes on this platform like my Super Soft Bread Rolls, No-knead Bread Rolls, Sweet Milk Bread, Meat Pies, and much more.

What you will find on this blog:

Press Inquiries

If you are a member of the media and want to write a story about Chef Lola's Kitchen or are looking for an expert source for a column, please email me at press (at) cheflolaskitchen (dot) com.

All Members of the Media are permitted to use a photo provided that credit will be given to the page where the photo was taken at cheflolaskitchen.com.

Join us on our social media platforms!

Nothing gives me more joy than seeing you recreate my recipes. If you do, I would love to see the pictures of your creations on Facebook or Instagram; be sure to tag #cheflolaskitchen!

Feel free to contact me here with questions, suggestions, or information. I will reply as soon as I can.

I made a list of my top favorite products that I use in my kitchen. They are now available for you to shop.

I do hope you enjoy your stay here in my kitchen. xoxo

Tuesday 10th of June 2025

Greetings Lola, my name is Myia, I am a retired Registered Nurse. I live in St. John, United States Virgin Islands. I was born in Albany Georgia (USA), lived in Trenton, New Jersey for 35 years, took a trip to the Caribbean and decided that is where I wanted to live, because the flowers bloom year round (I love flowers and plants) I am a very big fan of AFRICAN MOVIES (Genieve Nnaji) is my absolute FAVORITE female Nigerian actress. I was surfing the net to find out what "JOLIF RICE " is and came across your page. (They talk about Jolof rice a lot in the African movies I watch) so today I decided to make it for my husband today for his birthday (he is a retired Executive Chef / Souse Chef from CANEEL BAY RESORTS here in St. John. I like to cook and sow also. The Jolof Rice was a big success. I am always looking for new ideas when it comes to cooking. Thank you for sharing your recipes.

Lola Osinkolu

Monday 23rd of June 2025

You've had such a beautiful journey! I can picture the beautiful colors in your garden and the calm pace of island life. Thank you for sharing your story. What a nice way to celebrate your husband's birthday! 🎉 I’m happy that one of my recipes found its way into your kitchen in such a meaningful way. Wishing you joy in your garden and many more tasty meals to enjoy. Thank you again, Myia!!

Helen

Sunday 25th of May 2025

Excellent recipe for the sausage roll buns. Noticed on the video that you butter them after baking. See it’s not noted on the instructions but am guessing that’s because it’s an optional step. Is buttering the rolls to add more flavour?

Looking forward to trying your other recipes!

Lola Osinkolu

Tuesday 24th of June 2025

Yes, Helen, it’s an optional step. Brushing the rolls with butter after baking adds a bit of extra flavor, softens the crust a bit, and gives them a soft, shiny finish. Totally up to your taste preference. I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe :)

Edwin Lourie⁸

Wednesday 5th of February 2025

The most tastefull and delicious turkey wings I have ever eaten Thanknyou

Chef Lola's Kitchen

Sunday 9th of February 2025

Thanks so much, Edwin.

Faiza and amina

Friday 13th of December 2024

I want to be like you

Chef Lola's Kitchen

Sunday 15th of December 2024

Thanks Amina

Emi

Sunday 8th of December 2024

Hello Lola

Thanks for sharing your cooking wisdom. Your recipes are inspiring and your food shows all the passion you put in it.

Learnt a few baking tricks and looking forward to trying some African dishes - only wish I could source the ingredients more easily. Not quite sure about some pasta recipe (me being Italian), however they look delicious 😊

All the best. Emi

Chef Lola's Kitchen

Sunday 15th of December 2024

Thanks, Emi❤️