I love food, but it's one of those things that can be either really good or really bad. Thankfully Lamu is famous for its wonderful coastal dishes. Lamu, and the rest of the coast, is basically a foodie's haven in Kenya, where every other place inland is selling the same old ugali (a cornmeal paste, like congealed grits) and maharagwe (beans). Lamu also has a glut of fantastic street foods. If you walk along the main thoroughfare near our house, both sides of the street are lined with men, women and the occasional horde of Watoto (children) hawking their tasty wares; mountains of freshly glazed donuts, corn on the cob roasted on open coals and skewers of sizzling nyama choma (barbecued meat). As I was fully appreciating a 25 cent skewer of perfectly grilled beef drenched in spicy pili pili sauce, I suddenly felt very sad about someday returning to the bare streets of America, where the only real street food is found at the occasional hotdog stand (which are mostly in New York, no fair), and where, if you do find some, your wallet will feel a lot lighter if you buy. So, in honor of Lamu, where the concept of anything like the FDA is totally laughed at and everything usually costs way less than a quarter, I've decided to compile a food diary of a weeks worth of gastronomical adventures exploring Lamu's street fare. Bon appétit!
Day 1: Muhogo (cassava) with Chili
My friend Yahya (John in English) bought this for me as I was traipsing along the wharf. Yahya gave five shillings to a broad backed man who quickly handed us the piping hot cassava wrapped in brown paper. Yahya and I sat together under a palm tree and shared this savory potato like treat. Let me just say, it was like a revelation! Fries got nothing on this! The outside was crispy from being seared over red coals. Sprinkled on top is a mix of salt and chili powder with a fresh squeeze of lemon, seeds included.
No comments:
Post a Comment