Food & Drinks Archives

Best Coastal Dishes From Mombasa You Need to Try

Posted on 22 April, 202522 April, 2025 by Bantu Editorial

Taste the Coast: Iconic Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss in Mombasa

Kenya’s coastal city of Mombasa is more than just sun and sand—it’s a culinary paradise deeply influenced by Swahili, Arab, Indian, and Portuguese traditions. From richly spiced stews to deep-fried street snacks, every bite is a celebration of culture and flavor. Here are the best coastal dishes from Mombasa you need to try, whether you’re exploring Old Town, relaxing in Nyali, or strolling through the bustling streets of Likoni.

1. Swahili Biryani

This isn’t your average biryani. Mombasa’s version features fragrant basmati rice layered with slow-cooked, spiced meat (often chicken or beef) in a rich tomato gravy. What sets it apart is the use of coconut milk and local spices, giving it a creamy, tangy twist.

Learn how to make authentic Swahili biryani with this detailed recipe

2. Pilau

Pilau is a must-try dish, often served during special occasions or family gatherings. It’s a rice dish spiced with cumin, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper, usually cooked with beef or goat. The deep brown color and aromatic flavor make it unforgettable.

Discover the history of pilau and its variations from TasteAtlas

3. Viazi Karai

These are deep-fried potatoes dipped in a turmeric-infused batter, typically served with spicy ukwaju (tamarind) sauce. Found everywhere from beachside stalls to high-end cafes, they’re a favorite snack for locals and tourists alike.

Try this easy homemade recipe from Swahili Food

4. Samaki wa Kupaka (Grilled Fish in Coconut Sauce)

This dish is a star along the coast. Fresh fish, often grilled over charcoal, is slathered in a rich, creamy coconut sauce infused with garlic, lime, and mild spices. It’s typically served with rice or chapati.

Find a traditional method on Kaluhi’s Kitchen

5. Mahamri and Chai

Mahamri are slightly sweet, cardamom-spiced doughnuts that pair perfectly with a cup of Swahili chai (spiced tea). They’re a staple breakfast treat and often served with mbaazi (pigeon peas in coconut sauce).

Read more about Swahili breakfast customs from The Culture Trip

6. Mbaazi wa Nazi (Pigeon Peas in Coconut Milk)

A humble yet flavorful dish, mbaazi is typically eaten for breakfast alongside mahamri. The soft pigeon peas are simmered in coconut milk with onions and mild spices. It’s vegan, nourishing, and incredibly delicious.

7. Kaimati

These sweet dumplings are deep-fried and coated in a sugary syrup, often flavored with cardamom or rosewater. They’re commonly served during Ramadan but can be found year-round in local markets.

Try making them at home with This Recipe from Fauzia’s Kitchen

8. Bhajia

Unlike viazi karai, bhajia are thin slices of potatoes or onions coated in gram flour and deep-fried until crisp. Served with a tangy chutney or tamarind dip, they’re perfect for a light afternoon snack.

9. Ugali na Samaki (Ugali with Fish)

While ugali is eaten across Kenya, on the coast it’s often paired with freshly caught fish, grilled or fried, and accompanied by a spicy tomato-onion relish or coconut sauce.

10. Achari ya Ukwaju (Tamarind Pickle)

This spicy, sour-sweet condiment is made with tamarind pulp, green chilies, and sometimes mango or lime. It’s the secret behind the flavorful dips that accompany most coastal street foods.

Where Food Meets Culture

Every coastal dish in Mombasa tells a story of history, trade, and rich cultural fusion. Whether you’re a street food explorer or prefer seated dining, the Swahili coast offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Don’t miss the chance to indulge your senses in one of Kenya’s most flavorful regions.

Want more? Check out our guide to Juice Bars and Smoothie Spots in Nairobi for healthy drink options to balance your foodie adventures.

Juice Bars and Smoothie Spots in Nairobi Worth Visiting

Posted on 22 April, 202522 April, 2025 by Bantu Editorial

Sip, Blend, Refresh: Nairobi’s Best Juice & Smoothie Hangouts

Nairobi’s food and wellness scene has seen a healthy twist in recent years, with juice bars and smoothie spots popping up across the city. Whether you’re into green detox blends, protein-packed smoothies, or tropical fruit juices, there’s a refreshing option for every taste and health goal.

Here are some of the best juice bars and smoothie cafes in Nairobi worth checking out on your next health kick—or cheat day!

1. Nature’s Smoothies – Nairobi CBD

Located in the heart of the city, Nature’s Smoothies is a local favorite for on-the-go professionals looking for fresh, cold-pressed juice. They offer a wide variety of fruit combinations, wellness shots, and smoothies made with no added sugar or preservatives.

Find them at Pioneer House, Kimathi Street. Visit Nature’s Smoothies Instagram for menu updates.

2. Urban Coffee – Westlands

While known for its coffee, Urban Coffee also serves up high-quality smoothies and detox juices made from locally sourced fruits. It’s a cozy spot for freelancers, casual meetings, or a healthy breakfast bowl with a side of mango smoothie.

Learn more at Urban Coffee House Kenya.

3. Vitality Juice Bar – The Sarit Centre

Located inside the Sarit Centre food court, this gem offers a range of immune-boosting juices, classic blends like pineapple-mint, and seasonal specials. It’s great for a refreshing break while shopping in Westlands.

See reviews and photos on TripAdvisor Sarit Centre.

4. Pallet Café – Lavington & Gigiri

Pallet Café is not only inclusive (staffed by deaf waiters) but also wellness-forward. Their juice and smoothie menu is inspired by clean eating principles, offering almond milk bases, avocado smoothies, and detox juices made with kale, ginger, and beetroot.

Check out Pallet Café Kenya for menus and locations.

5. Artcaffe – Various Locations

Most Artcaffe branches across Nairobi now include a juice bar section offering classic and exotic blends. Their “Ginger Beet Boost” and “Avocado Paradise” smoothies are favorites among health-conscious regulars.

Explore their juice menu on Artcaffe Kenya.

6. Wasp & Sprout – Loresho

This artsy, tucked-away café in Loresho not only serves excellent food but also some of the best smoothies in town. Try their banana-spinach smoothie or turmeric detox juice in a serene garden atmosphere.

Find directions and reviews on Wasp & Sprout Facebook.

7. Zucchini Green Grocers – Various Branches

Zucchini’s juice bar is located within select branches like ABC Place and Village Market. Their smoothies are made from farm-fresh produce—perfect for shoppers who want a quick health boost.

Visit Zucchini Kenya to find your nearest branch.

8. Kesh Kesh Roastery – Riverside Drive

Kesh Kesh isn’t just a coffee roastery—it’s also a go-to for nutrient-packed smoothies, especially for fitness enthusiasts. Their peanut butter-protein banana blend is a post-workout favorite.

More about their menu on Kesh Kesh Roastery Instagram.

Smooth, Fresh & Kenyan Proud

Whether you’re a wellness warrior, smoothie lover, or just looking for a refreshing way to beat the Nairobi heat, these juice bars deliver on taste, quality, and health. Supporting local juice bars also promotes local farming and sustainable, health-conscious living.

Want to explore more healthy Kenyan food and drink options? Check out our guide on Healthy Traditional Kenyan Dishes You Should Cook.

Healthy Traditional Kenyan Dishes You Should Cook

Posted on 22 April, 2025 by Bantu Editorial

Wholesome and Flavorful: Kenya’s Healthiest Traditional Dishes

Kenya’s culinary landscape is bursting with bold flavors and time-tested recipes—but did you know many of them are incredibly healthy too? Rooted in natural, locally-sourced ingredients, traditional Kenyan dishes are not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. Whether you’re looking for low-fat, high-fiber meals or iron-rich vegetable stews, this guide will walk you through the healthiest options you can cook at home.

1. Sukuma Wiki (Collard Greens)

Translating to “push the week,” sukuma wiki is one of Kenya’s most popular side dishes. It’s a simple sauté of collard greens, onions, and tomatoes, often paired with ugali. Collard greens are rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C.

Learn how to cook sukuma wiki with this simple Kenyan recipe.

2. Githeri (Maize and Beans Mix)

Githeri is a classic Kikuyu dish made with boiled maize and beans. High in plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, this one-pot meal is filling and incredibly nourishing. Spice it up with onions, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of curry powder.

See how to prepare healthy githeri from scratch via African Bites.

3. Irio (Mashed Peas, Potatoes, and Corn)

A favorite from Central Kenya, irio is made by mashing green peas, potatoes, and maize together. This starchy but nutritious combo is often served with roasted meat or sautéed greens. Peas offer a good source of protein, while maize provides energy-rich carbs.

4. Omena (Silver Cyprinid Fish)

These small dried fish from Lake Victoria are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D. When stewed with tomatoes, onions, and garlic, omena becomes a hearty and healthy meal usually served with ugali or rice.

For tips on cleaning and cooking omena, visit Jikoni Magic’s YouTube tutorial.

5. Kunde (Black-eyed Peas Leaves)

Kunde, or cowpea leaves, are often steamed or boiled and then lightly fried with tomatoes and onions. These greens are high in antioxidants, fiber, and essential micronutrients like magnesium and potassium. They’re a great plant-based option for any meal.

6. Ndengu (Green Grams)

Green grams or mung beans are a protein-rich legume that’s simmered in a tomato-onion base. They’re often paired with chapati or rice and are ideal for vegetarians or anyone watching their cholesterol levels.

You can try this easy mung beans stew at home.

7. Sweet Potato and Arrowroot Breakfast

Instead of bread, many Kenyan households opt for roasted or boiled sweet potatoes (ngwaci) and arrowroots (nduma) for breakfast. These root vegetables are high in fiber, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates, keeping you full for longer.

8. Matoke (Plantain Stew)

Popular in Western Kenya and among the Kisii community, matoke is a savory plantain stew prepared with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes lean meat. Plantains are high in potassium and fiber, making this a heart-healthy dish.

Try this traditional matoke recipe that’s common across East Africa.

9. Kachumbari (Fresh Tomato and Onion Salad)

This raw salad of tomatoes, onions, chili, and lemon juice is often served with grilled meat or pilau. It’s low in calories and packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. For an extra punch, you can add avocado—another nutrient-dense Kenyan favorite.

10. Pumpkin Leaves and Seeds

Often overlooked, pumpkin leaves (locally known as seveve or managu) are stir-fried with onions and tomatoes for a mineral-rich vegetable dish. The seeds can be roasted and eaten as a snack, full of healthy fats and zinc.

Nourish Your Body, the Kenyan Way

Cooking traditional Kenyan meals doesn’t just honor heritage—it’s a smart and healthy lifestyle choice. With natural ingredients and minimal processing, these dishes help maintain a balanced diet while letting you enjoy every bite. Whether you’re preparing a bowl of githeri or a fresh kachumbari salad, each recipe brings you closer to the soul of Kenyan wellness.

Want to explore even more healthy living tips from across the country? Head over to our Wellness section for recipes, nutrition guides, and lifestyle inspiration.

A Beginner’s Guide to Kenyan Tea Culture

Posted on 22 April, 2025 by Bantu Editorial

Brewing a Nation’s Soul: Inside Kenya’s Tea Culture

Tea is more than just a drink in Kenya—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re visiting a friend’s home, attending a meeting, or stopping by a roadside café, you’re likely to be offered a steaming cup of chai. Kenya, the third-largest exporter of tea in the world, has built a strong global reputation for producing some of the finest black tea. But beyond the export stats lies a rich, daily tradition deeply rooted in hospitality, history, and taste.

A Glimpse into Kenya’s Tea History

Tea was introduced to Kenya in the early 1900s by British colonists, but what began as a colonial cash crop evolved into one of the most important aspects of Kenyan agriculture and culture. Today, Kenyan tea is grown primarily in the highlands, especially around Kericho and Nandi Hills, where the climate and soil are ideal.

Want to dive deeper into Kenya’s tea-growing regions? Visit Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) for insights.

Types of Tea Grown in Kenya

Black Tea – The most commonly grown and consumed type.
Green Tea – Gaining popularity for its health benefits.
White and Purple Tea – Rare and more exclusive, with antioxidant-rich properties.

Kenyan black tea is known for its brisk flavor, strong color, and bright character, making it a favorite in international blends like English Breakfast.

Kenyan Chai: Not Just Tea, But Tradition

“Chai” in Kenya usually refers to tea made with milk, sugar, and strong black tea leaves. It’s not uncommon for people to enjoy several cups a day, especially during breakfast and evening hours. Unlike some Western styles of tea where you steep a tea bag, Kenyan chai is typically simmered in a pot with milk and sugar, creating a rich and comforting flavor.

🍵 How to Make Authentic Kenyan Chai

Ingredients:

Water
Milk
Loose black tea leaves (or strong tea bags)
Sugar
Optional: Ginger, cardamom, or tea masala for extra flavor

Steps:

Boil equal parts water and milk in a sufuria (saucepan).
Add 1-2 teaspoons of tea leaves or 2 strong tea bags.
Add sugar to taste.
Optional: Add crushed ginger or tea masala.
Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Strain and serve hot.

For a detailed video tutorial, check out How to Make Kenyan Chai on YouTube.

Tea in Social Life and Hospitality

In Kenya, tea is synonymous with hospitality. It’s served during family visits, at business meetings, and even roadside stalls known as “kibandas.” Refusing a cup can sometimes be seen as rude, especially in rural areas. It’s not just about the beverage—it’s about bonding, slowing down, and sharing.

Where to Experience Tea Culture in Kenya

Kericho Tea Plantations – Guided tours available at estates like Unilever Tea Kenya.
Gatura Greens – Offers tea farm stays and cultural experiences in Central Kenya.
Fairview Hotel (Nairobi) – Known for its traditional tea service in a garden setting.
Java House – A modern café chain offering Kenyan tea and pastries.

Health Benefits of Kenyan Tea

High in antioxidants
Boosts metabolism and immunity
Improves focus and reduces stress
Helps with digestion

Read more about the science-backed benefits of black tea.

Your First Sip is Just the Beginning

Whether you’re enjoying a hot cup of chai at sunrise or exploring lush tea fields in Kericho, Kenya’s tea culture invites you into a world where flavor, community, and tradition meet. It’s a ritual that unites generations and welcomes strangers like old friends.

Ready to explore more of Kenya’s flavorful traditions? Check out our post on 10 Most Popular Kenyan Foods to complete your culinary journey.

Foods to Try in Kenya: A Delicious Tour of Kenyan Cuisine

Posted on 22 April, 202522 April, 2025 by Bantu Editorial

Kenya’s diverse culture is mirrored in its rich and flavorful cuisine. From hearty stews to spicy street foods, Kenyan dishes are rooted in tradition and offer a culinary experience like no other. Whether you’re visiting the coast, the highlands, or the bustling streets of Nairobi, here are the must-try foods in Kenya that will delight your taste buds and introduce you to the heart of the country.

1. Ugali – Kenya’s Staple Dish

Ugali is the undisputed king of Kenyan meals. Made from maize flour and water, this dense, dough-like dish is served as a side with nearly every traditional meal.

It pairs perfectly with sukuma wiki (collard greens), nyama choma (grilled meat), or fish.

Learn how to make ugali with this BBC Good Food recipe.

Best place to try: Any Kenyan household, local hotels, or traditional restaurants

2. Nyama Choma – Grilled Meat, Kenyan Style

Nyama choma (literally “roasted meat”) is more than just food—it’s a social experience. Goat meat is most popular, but beef and chicken are also common. It’s usually served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad) and cold drinks.

Dive into Kenya’s nyama choma culture with Culture Trip’s guide.

Best place to try: Kenyatta Market, Carnivore Nairobi, or any roadside grill

3. Chapati – Soft, Layered Flatbread

Kenyan chapati is soft, flaky, and slightly oily. Influenced by Indian cuisine, chapati is a beloved street food and household favorite, served with beans, stews, or just tea.

Check out a simple chapati recipe on Taste Atlas.

Best place to try: Street vendors and small cafes across the country

4. Sukuma Wiki – The Budget-Friendly Green

Sukuma wiki, which translates to “stretch the week,” is a staple leafy green dish in Kenya. Sautéed with onions and tomatoes, it’s healthy, cheap, and goes with nearly everything—especially ugali.

Read more about sukuma wiki’s nutritional value on Healthline.

Best place to try: Local eateries, school canteens, and home kitchens

5. Githeri – The Ultimate One-Pot Wonder

Originating from the Kikuyu community, githeri is a mix of boiled maize and beans. It’s often enhanced with vegetables, potatoes, or meat and seasoned with curry or beef cubes.

Try this hearty githeri recipe from All Kenyan Recipes.

Best place to try: Traditional food joints or boarding school menus

6. Mutura – Kenya’s Spicy Sausage

Mutura is a spiced sausage made from cow or goat intestines and blood, often referred to as “African sausage.” Grilled on open flames at roadside stalls, it’s a popular evening snack and a must for the adventurous foodie.

Learn more about Kenya’s street food scene from TripSavvy.

Best place to try: Street food stalls in residential areas

7. Pilau – Spiced Rice with Coastal Flavour

A favorite at Swahili weddings and celebrations, pilau is rice cooked in fragrant spices, often with beef or chicken. The blend of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom gives it a distinctive coastal aroma.

Explore authentic pilau recipes at Swahili Food.

Best place to try: Mombasa restaurants, coastal homes, or Swahili cuisine spots

8. Mandazi – Kenya’s Fluffy Doughnut

Mandazi is a slightly sweet, deep-fried dough that resembles a doughnut. It’s commonly enjoyed with chai (tea) for breakfast or as a snack.

Make mandazi at home with this recipe from Serious Eats.

Best place to try: Roadside stalls, school tuck shops, or tea cafes

9. Samosa – Crispy, Savory Pockets

Though of Indian origin, samosas are fully embraced in Kenyan cuisine. Filled with minced meat or vegetables, they’re popular at gatherings, weddings, and roadside kiosks.

Best place to try: Street food vendors or fast-food joints in urban areas

10. Matoke – Banana-Based Goodness

Matoke, or stewed green bananas, is a staple from western Kenya. Cooked with onions, tomatoes, and meat, it has a soft, rich texture and is packed with flavor.

Explore the cultural significance of matoke via African Bites.

Best place to try: Kisii or western Kenyan towns and restaurants

Ready to Eat Your Way Through Kenya?

Kenyan food is a flavorful reflection of its people—warm, diverse, and full of stories. Whether you’re sipping spiced tea in the highlands or munching on mutura under Nairobi’s night sky, every dish offers a taste of Kenya’s cultural tapestry.

So go ahead and try them all—your stomach will thank you.

Kenyan Street Foods to Try: A Culinary Adventure You Can’t Miss

Posted on 22 April, 202522 April, 2025 by Bantu Editorial

Kenya’s street food scene is a vibrant reflection of the country’s rich culture, diverse communities, and love for fresh, flavorful ingredients. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Nairobi or exploring coastal towns like Mombasa, there’s a wide variety of street foods to tantalize your taste buds. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular Kenyan street foods that every foodie must try.

1. Samosa: A Savory Snack for Every Occasion

One of the most popular street foods in Kenya, the samosa is a deep-fried pastry filled with meat, vegetables, or lentils. It’s crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside. Often served as a snack or appetizer, Kenyan samosas are perfect for a quick bite while exploring the streets. You’ll find them sold in kiosks, restaurants, and on street corners across the country.

2. Mandazi: A Sweet Treat

If you have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to miss mandazi, a deep-fried dough pastry that’s slightly sweet and fluffy. Mandazi is a popular Kenyan street snack and is often enjoyed with tea or as a dessert after a hearty meal. It’s similar to doughnuts but with a slightly firmer texture, making it a satisfying option when you need a quick pick-me-up.

3. Nyama Choma: Grilled Meat Perfection

Nyama choma is Kenya’s answer to barbecue. Whether it’s beef, chicken, or goat, the meat is seasoned with a blend of spices, marinated, and then grilled to perfection. Nyama choma is commonly served with a side of kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) and chapati or ugali (a type of maize porridge). You’ll find nyama choma joints everywhere, especially in Nairobi and Mombasa, making it a must-try for anyone craving Kenyan grilled meat.

4. Ugali and Sukuma: The Ultimate Kenyan Comfort Food

Ugali, a staple food in Kenya, is a dense, starchy dish made from maize flour, and it’s often served as an accompaniment to stews, meats, or vegetables. Sukuma (collard greens) is a common side dish that pairs perfectly with ugali. This combination is not only filling but also packed with nutrients, making it one of the most beloved Kenyan street foods. You’ll find ugali and sukuma served at small food stalls and restaurants across the country.

5. Mahamri: A Flavorful Coconut Delight

If you find yourself in Mombasa or the coastal region of Kenya, make sure to try mahamri, a coconut-flavored fried bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often served alongside supu (soup) or with tea, mahmri is a coastal Kenyan street food that’s a perfect snack for any time of day.

6. Githeri: A Hearty Mix of Beans and Corn

Githeri is a traditional Kenyan dish made from a mix of beans, corn, and sometimes potatoes or vegetables. It’s a hearty, nutritious meal that’s often served on the streets, particularly in rural areas. This comforting dish is typically accompanied by chapati or rice and is a great option if you’re looking for something filling yet affordable.

7. Chips Mayai: A Flavorful Fried Potato Omelet

Chips mayai, sometimes called the Kenyan street omelet, is a popular fast food in Kenya. It’s a delicious combination of fried potatoes and eggs, often topped with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It’s similar to a frittata or a potato omelet, and it’s usually served with salsa or a side of vegetables. If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal, chips mayai is a street food that delivers both flavor and comfort.

8. Roasted Maize: Simple, Yet Delicious

If you’re in the mood for a simple, healthy snack, look no further than roasted maize (corn). Vendors sell freshly roasted maize on the streets, often served with a sprinkling of chili powder or salt. This snack is perfect for a light bite during the day and is popular with both locals and tourists.

9. Sashimi: A Coastal Kenyan Delicacy

In coastal cities like Mombasa, you can find vendors selling sashimi—fresh raw fish, typically tuna or marlin, served with onions, tomatoes, and chili. This Kenyan coastal dish is a refreshing and light option, perfect for those seeking a taste of the sea.

10. Vitumbua: A Sweet Rice Cake

A traditional Kenyan snack, vitumbua is a deep-fried rice cake made from rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. It’s soft, moist, and slightly sweet, making it an irresistible treat often found in the streets of coastal Kenya. If you’re in search of a sweet snack, vitumbua is a must-try.

11. Sukuma and Chapati: A Filling Meal

Sukuma (collard greens) served with chapati (flatbread) is a simple yet satisfying meal found in street food stalls throughout Kenya. It’s a great vegetarian option for those seeking something healthy and filling.

12. Fanta with a Twist

Kenya has a variety of local drinks that complement the street food scene. One of the most popular is Fanta with a twist. Street vendors often add a dash of lime or lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt to give it a unique flavor, making it a refreshing accompaniment to your meal.

Final Bite: The Taste of Kenya

Kenya’s street food culture is as diverse as the country itself, offering a range of flavors that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re enjoying grilled meat in Nairobi, sampling coastal delights in Mombasa, or grabbing a quick bite in a small town, these Kenyan street foods provide an authentic taste of the country’s culinary traditions. Don’t miss out on these delicious offerings—your taste buds will thank you!