Nyama Choma with Kachumbari

In my post about my trip to Kenya, I did not discuss the food at all. I have to say I was surprised about the flavours I found. Kenyan food looks like it is a mix of so many other cultural influences, They have chapati which is indian and also Pilau as a major staple. They also really love corn. However, in terms of seasoning, they go with some arabian spices but they stay very simple and light on the palette. My nigerianess affected me on this trip because I really wanted pepper and that was a no-go for them at least on the level of west africans. All the same it wasn’t all bad, it was just different. When I had my cravings, I went to have pounded yam and ogbono at the Nigerian restaurant on my street there in Nairobi. Shout out to Ngufami House on Turbo road close to the Yaya Centre. You helped me through rough times lol.

Now on to this recipe, It is very simple to make and also in taste as only 3 ingredients are necessary. Nyama choma is grilled meat in swahili. Like i explained earlier, Kenyans do not overdose on spices so all you need is your meat, salt and pepper and possibly an open fire so the charcoal taste stays on the meat. The best meat to use for Nyama choma is goat meat. You can also use lamb or even regular beef and as a Nigerian, you may even want to add some seasoning cubes, garlic etc. However authentically, it is just Kosher salt and pepper. It is served with Kachumbari which they refer to as a salad but it’s more like a side of salsa.  Enjoy

Recipe for Nyama Choma

Ingredients

1 Pound of Goat Meat

Salt to Taste

Dry Pepper

Method

If you are using an open fire, Season your meat and place on open fire and grill till done.

If you are using an oven, pre-heat till 360 F and place your meats in the oven and cook till brown on both sides almost crispy.

Kachumbari

Ingredients

2 large Tomatoes

1 small red onion

Handful of chopped coriander (You can also use scent leaves for an enhanced flavour)

2 teaspoons of lime juice

Method

Rinse the chopped onions in warm water to remove a bit of the overpowering onion smell

In a serving bowl, mix the chopped onions, tomato, coriander and sprinkle the lime juice and toss.

Serve with the Nyama Choma