Popular Spices in Kenya: Must-Haves in Every Household

The complex richness of the cuisine is due to several elements, one of which is the spices tickling the taste buds and adding complexities into dishes. Let’s go on an adventure in search of the famous spices that make Kenyan food taste good.

Royco

Nearly all Kenyan households use this locally-made spice. Additionally, it has a unique aroma and taste that brings richness to soups, curry, and even marinades. Cumin may be combined with coriander and turmeric for a good harmony or a balanced flavor.

Coriander (Dania)

Coriander is a must-have spice in Kenya with bright citrusy notes. The smell is refreshing and delicious and can go with soups, stews, curry, meat kebabs, and stir-fried vegetables. The powdered form of coriander seed is usually used but it sometimes acts as a garnish when they’re just in their fresh state.

Chili Peppers

Are incorporated in Kenyan cuisine to enhance the flavor and stimulate all of one’s senses. There are many kinds of chilis pepper available in the market starting with very hot ones like Habaneros and less hot ones such as Jalepeños. Many times, chili peppers are combined with other spices to strike a good balance between the two.

Garlic:

Garlic, whose pungent and hot flavoring infuses uniqueness into Kenyan food. In stew, curry and marinating it is usually left as an aftertaste for the tongue.

Turmeric:

One important ingredient in most Kenyan dishes is turmeric which has a yellow color and an earthy smell. The taste is quite mildly biting which enriches its flavor in stews, curry, and rice. Apart from being a food agent, turmeric is also known for its medicinal abilities, which contributes to its popularity as a Kenyan dish.