12 East African Foods You Need to Try in Your Lifetime

Visiting Africa this year? The best way to experience a culture is through it’s Food. That’s how you really connect with the people.

Welcome to the world of East African food! Being a Tanzanian chef, I'm excited to take you on a culinary journey through the diverse and delectable dishes that East Africa has to offer.

Our East African food is a reflection of our rich culture, history, and the bounty of our land. 

In this article, we'll explore the flavors, ingredients, and traditions that make East African cuisine a must-try for food enthusiasts worldwide.

What really is East African Food?

The heart of our cuisine lies in fresh, new, and ancient ingredients, balanced perfectly with aromatic spices from our Zanzibar spice farms.

From Kenya to Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, each country adds its unique touch to a shared combination of flavors.

What sets East African cuisine apart is its use of locally sourced ingredients, aromatic spices, and a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

12 Popular East African Dishes You Must Try

Each East African country brings its own unique flavors to the table. Let's explore some regional variations in East African cuisine.

Tanzanian Cuisine

Tanzania is known for its flavorful and hearty dishes, which you’ll experience first-hand while on vacations on Zanzibar or Pemba Island.

Tanzanian food is a delightful blend of flavors, with a coastal influence from the Swahili culture.

Dishes like pilau, biryani, and seafood delicacies are popular along the coast, while staples like ugali and Nyama Choma are enjoyed nationwide.

1. Ugali (fufu): 

Ugali, known as posho in Tanzania, is the cornerstone of East African cuisine. It's a porridge-like dish made from maize, millet, or sorghum, mixed with water.

It's often served with vegetables, sauce, and meat, and rolling it into a ball with your right hand is part of the tradition.

Enjoy the staple dish of Tanzania, Ugali, with this simple recipe:

Ingredients: Maize flour, Water,  Salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the water to a rolling boil. It's important to have the water fully boiling before adding the flour for the proper texture.

2. Reduce the heat slightly. Take a handful of flour and slowly sprinkle it into the boiling water, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon in the other hand. Avoid dumping the flour all at once, or you'll get lumps.

3. Keep adding flour gradually, stirring constantly. The ugali will start thickening and pulling away from the sides of the pot.

4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. This ensures the flour is fully cooked through. Stir once or twice during this time to prevent sticking.

5. To serve, use the wooden spoon to loosen the ugali around the edges, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. It should hold its shape nicely.
   

2. Nyama Choma (Grilled Meat): 

A carnivore's delight, this dish features succulent roasted meat, usually beef, chicken, or goat.

Experience the delight of Nyama Choma with this recipe:

Ingredients: Beef, chicken, or goat meat, Salt, Black pepper, Garlic, Ginger, and Cooking oil.

Instructions:

1. Combine the meat with salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and oil in a large bowl. Toss well, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Preheat your grill, aiming for a temperature between 400-450°F (200-230°C) for that perfect sear. Charcoal grills impart a smoky flavor, while gas grills offer easier temperature control.

3. Thread the meat onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even heat distribution. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Place the skewers on the hottest part of the grill. Resist the urge to move them for the first 2-3 minutes, allowing a beautiful crust to develop. This is key for flavor and texture.

5. Even Cooking: Flip the skewers and continue grilling until the meat is cooked to your desired doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare beef, 165°F (74°C) for chicken.

6. Rest for Perfection: Remove the skewers from the grill and let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring a juicy, flavorful experience.

If you’re cooking up a trip to East Africa, our detailed guide covers when is the best time to visit Tanzania and everything you need for the best experience.

3. Wali na Maharage (Rice and Beans):

A simple yet comforting dish of rice cooked in coconut milk and kidney beans. This dish pairs tender pieces of meat with fragrant rice cooked in rich, aromatic sauces. It's a hearty and satisfying meal.

Enjoy the delicious pairing of rice and meat with this recipe:

Ingredients: Long-grain rice, Beef, chicken, or goat meat, Onions, Tomatoes, Cooking oil, Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly. If using dried kidney beans, soak them overnight, then drain and rinse.

2. Heat the oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Add the cumin and turmeric, and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the tomatoes and cook until softened, creating a rich base.

4. Add the rice and kidney beans to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and enough water to cover the rice by about an inch. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice and beans are tender and the liquid is absorbed. 6.

6. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasonings.

The most visited region in Tanzania is Zanzibar, with some of the most special food in East Africa. We’ve made a separate list of the best Zanzibari food you should try if you’re visiting.

4. Kachumbari:

 A refreshing tomato and onion salad, bursting with zesty flavors.

Add a refreshing touch to your meal with this Kachumbari recipe:

Ingredients: Tomatoes, Onions, Cilantro, Lime or lemon juice, Oil, Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Dice tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

• Place the tomatoes, onion, and cilantro in a bowl. The thinner you slice the onion, the less pungent its bite will be – adjust accordingly!

• Add the lime juice and olive oil, season generously with salt and pepper, and toss to combine. The acidity will slightly soften the onions over time.

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld. This salad is best served fresh on the same day.

Besides food, here are to top 15 other things to do in Zanzibar and Pemba Island, Tanzania.

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Been to Zanzibar yet?

Come have the fun of a lifetime with us in Zanzibar. Have so much fun experiencing the absolute best of East Africa delicacies and our genuine spirit of community and sharing.

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East African Foods From Kenya

Kenyan cuisine is known for its diversity, influenced by various ethnic groups and its coastal regions.

Coastal dishes often feature coconut milk, while staples like ugali and chapati are enjoyed throughout the country.

5. Nyama Choma (Grilled Meat):

Similar to the Tanzanian version, this Kenyan favorite offers a smoky and flavorful meat experience.

To cook Nyama Choma (Grilled Meat), you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of beef, goat, or lamb meat, cut into cubes

• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon of salt

• 1 teaspoon of black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the meat, oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.

2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Remove the meat from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.

5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as ugali, kachumbari, and chapati.

6. Chapati (Unleavened Flatbread):

Versatile and delicious, chapati is a staple that pairs well with many East African dishes.

Savor the flavors of Kenyan cuisine with homemade Chapati:

Ingredients: All-purpose flour, Water, Oil, and Salt.

Instructions:

• In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the oil and gradually incorporate the warm water, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms.

• Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the chapati easier to roll out. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.

• Lightly flour your work surface. Roll each piece of dough into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.

• Heat a tawa (a flat griddle) or a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place a chapati onto the pan. Cook for 30-60 seconds on each side, or until lightly browned and puffed up in spots.

• Brush the cooked chapati lightly with oil and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to keep it soft and pliable as you cook the rest.

7. Samosas:

These triangular pastries, filled with a mix of beef, chicken, fish, or vegetables, are a delightful street food.

Bring the flavors of Kenyan street food to your kitchen with these samosas:

Ingredients (Filling):

• 1 pound ground beef (or lamb, chicken, or vegetarian alternative)

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 1 medium potato, boiled, peeled, and diced

• 1 tablespoon garam masala (or curry powder)

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Flavorful Filling: Heat oil in a large pan. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute. Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned.

2. Spice and Simmer: Add the garam masala, coriander, turmeric, salt, pepper, potatoes, and peas. Add a splash of water and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors are combined and the potatoes are tender.

3. Assembly: Cut each samosa wrapper in half. Take one half and fold it to form a cone shape, sealing the edges with the flour paste. Fill the cone with 1-2 tablespoons of the filling, then fold the top to seal, making a triangle.

4. Deep-Fry to Golden: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the samosas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
   
   

8. Mandazi

These fried dough balls are the perfect snack or dessert, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and fluffiness. They’re East Africa’s favorite slightly sweet street food.

Indulge in the sweet and crispy goodness of Mandazi:

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

• 1/2 cup warm coconut milk (or regular milk)

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• Cooking oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and cardamom in a large bowl.

2. Add the coconut milk and egg, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough seems dry, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time.

3. Cover and let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes. Divide the dough into small balls or roll it out and cut shapes using a knife or cookie cutter.

4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the mandazi in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Drain the mandazi on paper towels. While still warm, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

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Planning a trip to Africa this year? Here are the top 10 places in East Africa you should absolutely visit for a vacation or adventure.

And if you need help planning, feel free to talk to us.

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Ugandan Cuisine

Uganda is known for its unique dishes featuring plantains and street food delights.

Ugandan cuisine offers a combination of ingredients, with plantains and matooke taking center stage. Dishes like Rolex and Luwombo showcase the creativity of Ugandan cooking.

9. Matooke: 

A dish made from steamed and mashed green bananas, similar to plantains, often served with a savory sauce and pork.

Capture the essence of Ugandan cuisine with this Matooke recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4-5 green bananas (matooke)

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 tomatoes, chopped

• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or groundnut paste)

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and rinse the matooke. Cut them into large chunks for easier cooking.

2. Place the matooke chunks in a steamer basket over simmering water and steam until tender, about 20-30 minutes. Check with a fork for doneness.

3. While the matooke steams, heat the oil in a large pot. Add onions and cook until softened. Then stir in the tomatoes and cook until they break down slightly.

4. Add the broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the peanut butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Once tender, remove the matooke from the steamer and gently mash it. Stir the mashed matooke into the peanut sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors. Serve hot.
   
   

10. Rolex Meal

This meal isn’t made up of higher grade steel like the “Rolex” watch.

It’s a meal that’s rolled chapati filled with various ingredients like eggs, avocado, onions, and more—a popular Ugandan street food.

Try your hand at making a Ugandan Rolex:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 chapatis (see Kenyan recipe)

• 2 eggs

• 1 small tomato, thinly sliced

• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet with oil. Scramble the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the eggs over a prepared chapati, then top with tomato, onion, green pepper (if using), and avocado slices.

2. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Carefully roll the chapati like a burrito, folding it in the sides to secure it.

3. For a crispier finish, return the rolled Rolex to the hot skillet and toast on each side for 30 seconds. Serve immediately.

Thinking about visiting East Africa? Now’s the best time. Here are the top 10 Islands on the East Coast of Africa for a vacation.

East African Foods From Rwanda and Burundi

Burundian cuisine shares similarities with Rwandan cuisine, with a focus on plantains, beans, and hearty stews. The use of locally sourced ingredients is a hallmark of Burundian cooking.

Rwandan cuisine is characterized by simple yet flavorful dishes like mtori and brochettes. Rwandans also enjoy a variety of beans and vegetables in their meals.

11. Mtori

A filling stew/soup made from green bananas, potatoes, and meat. Nutritious and flavorful.

Even as a chef, I learn from my fellow cooks. Found this guide for ya!

Savor the flavors of East Africa with this Mtori recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 green bananas (matooke), peeled and chopped

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into cubes

• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

1. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, and cook until softened and fragrant.

2. Return the beef to the pot. Add the broth, green bananas, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
   
   
   

12. Brochettes: 

Meat kebabs are popular street food items, offering a savory and satisfying experience.

Experience the deliciousness of brochettes with this recipe:

Ingredients: Beef, goat, or chicken pieces, Onions, Peppers Salt and pepper to taste, Marinade (optional).

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the meat, peppers, and onions with your chosen marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Thread the marinated meat and vegetables onto skewers.

3. Preheat your grill, aiming for medium-high heat. Grill the brochettes for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Learn and explore our East African meal packages.

What’s the Secret? Why is East African Food So Delicious?

The secret to the delectable taste of East African food lies in its use of fresh and wholesome ingredients. From the fertile soils of our region, we harvest maize, millet, sorghum, and other staples that form the foundation of many dishes. 

We also embrace a variety of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, which infuse our dishes with warmth and complexity. The combination of these elements creates dishes that are not just meals but memorable experiences.

Intrigued? Let's explore these dishes in more detail and provide recipes for some of the more popular ones.

East African Food Culture

East African dining is a communal experience filled with flavor and tradition.

Communal Dining

In East African culture, dining is often a communal affair. Families and friends gather to share meals, fostering a sense of togetherness.

Large platters of food are placed at the center of the table, and diners use their right hands to scoop up bites of ugali, rice, or stew.

Use of Spices

Spices play a significant role in East African cuisine. Aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper are used to enhance the flavors of dishes.

These spices add depth and warmth to both savory and sweet preparations.

Fresh Ingredients

The emphasis on using fresh and locally sourced ingredients is a hallmark of East African cooking.

Whether it's farm-fresh vegetables, succulent meats, or ripe fruits, the focus is on quality and flavor. This commitment to fresh ingredients elevates every dish.

What are some tips for cooking East African food at home?

Cooking East African food at home can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible.

• Experiment with spices to achieve the desired flavor profile.

• Invest in a good-quality grill for dishes like Nyama Choma.

• Explore local markets to find authentic East African ingredients.

• Don't be afraid to try new recipes and techniques to expand your culinary skills.

More Challenging East African Recipes

For those seeking a culinary adventure, try your hand at Nyama Choma, Stew, or Biryani, and discover the art of East African cooking.

FAQ

Let’s answer some of the most popular questions about East African foods.

What are some popular East African street foods?

East African street foods include Samosas, Mandazi, Mishkaki (meat kebabs), Chips Mayai (omelet with French fries), and more. These snacks offer a taste of East Africa's vibrant street food culture.

What are some good East African restaurants in the US?

While the availability of East African restaurants may vary by location, some popular ones in the US include "Swahili Grill" in Minneapolis, "Safari Restaurant" in Minneapolis, and "Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant" in Washington, D.C.

What is the most eaten food in East Africa?

The most popular food in East Africa is ugali. It is also the most eaten food in East Africa, as it is a staple food in many East African countries.

It is a thick porridge made from maize flour and is a staple food in many East African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi.

Ugali is typically eaten with a stew or sauce, such as nyama choma (grilled meat), fish stew, or vegetable stew.

Is fufu East African food?

Another popular food in East Africa is fufu. Fufu is a dough-like food made from cassava or plantains. It is typically eaten with a soup or stew, such as peanut soup or okra stew. 

Fufu is not a traditional East African food and is more popular in West Africa than in East Africa, but it is still eaten in some East African countries, such as Tanzania and Uganda.

Which country is the food basket of East Africa?

The country that is known as the food basket of East Africa is Tanzania. Tanzania is a large country with a diverse climate, which allows it to grow a wide variety of crops. 

Tanzania is a major producer of maize, cassava, rice, beans, and bananas. It also produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as mangoes, pineapples, avocados, tomatoes, and onions.

But away from good, Tanzania is also Africa’s leader in terms of safari adventure. We discuss the top 15 National Parks in Tanzania to help you plan your trip.

Conclusion

East African cuisine is a celebration of tradition, community, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. So, why not embark on your culinary journey and savor the flavors of East Africa today? 

Discover the magic of East African cuisine for yourself, and let your taste buds travel to this delightful corner of the world.

Have any questions relating to East African Cuisine and planning your trip to Africa? We’re happy to help. Talk to us today for personalized help and guidance.

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