When talking about the various wonderful cuisines of the world, Kenya is not the first one to come to mind. However, this country has some of the most exotic cuisines in the world. The foods in Kenya are a wonderful mix of the traditions of various tribes that live there. The food is also highly inspired by India.
10 Local Foods You Must Try Out in Kenya
1. Ugali
The ugali is perhaps the most popular one of all. Ugali is a dish which is mainly consisting of maize flour or millet flour. The flour is added to boiling water and the heating is done until a dense texture is obtained. It then resembles a rather grainy dough. The dish, along with side dishes of vegetables and stew is a common dish.
2. Irio
Another popular dish in Kenya, the dish is a combination of mashed potatoes and peas. Green peas and potatoes are boiled and mashed. To this, kernels of corn are often added in as well. This is because the corn provides texture and crunchiness to the dish. This is an extremely heavy dish and perfect for vegetarians.
3. Sukuma Wiki
What health freak doesn’t love kale? This makes this dish the perfect one for those conscious about their health. The kale is cut and then cooked in oil. To this, we add vegetables like tomatoes, onions and also a hint of a secret Kenyan ingredient. The secret ingredient is mchuzi mix, which is a popular Kenyan flavouring agent. It is a simple dish but very nutritious and cheap.
4. Stew
Kenya boasts of a variety of stews, ranging from beef stew, goat stew or even chicken stew. Stew is the heart of Kenyan cooking and therefore an important dish. The base is often vegetable-based like tomatoes, onions etc. The sauce used is tomato base and don’t forget a hint of mchuzi mix.
5. Nyama Choma
Nyama Choma, simply put is roasted meat. It is often served alongside ugali. You eat it using your hands and only with salt and pepper on top. The best ones are from the street vendors and this dish will no doubt fill your stomach.
6. Chips Mayai
There are two foods which are the guilty pleasure of every foodie. One is the delicious omelette and the other, is french fries. Now imagine a dish that combines the two and you get Chips Mayai. It is a rather odd version of junk food but perhaps one that is a must-taste, even if just for novelty.
7. Mandazi
The Kenya version of a doughnut, Mandazi is a popular breakfast item along with tea. Sweet in taste, the dish is made by frying dough in oil. The dough is flavoured by using coconut milk. The sweet smell of Mandazi will allure you from far away.
8. Kuku Paka
This one is definitely for the chicken lovers. The dish is a curry which is also something that someone who craves Indian food can try. The curry has a coconut base. The chicken is also grilled before adding it to the curry. Definitely a must-try for those homesick travellers.
9. Kenyan Burgers
Definitely not something traditional but Kenyan burgers have a flavour of their own. The burgers vary depending on the shops and their cooking methods. Some like to deep fry their meat while others grill their patty. This gives a wide variety to their burgers and you can definitely find something you like.
10. Samosas
Surprise, Surprise. Bet you didn’t expect to see this food on this list. Surprisingly Kenya has adopted our Indian samosa and given it a Kenyan twist. You can find samosas everywhere in Kenya, from street vendors to more high end ones. Seeing samosas will definitely make you think twice about whether you are truly in Kenya or back home in India.
Read also – 10 Delicacies That One Must Try In Serbia
