Dates And Camel Stew

In search of fresh dates this weekend I went to Eastleigh, Nairobi’s prominently-Somali suburb. I had bought dates before in Nairobi supermarkets, but they’re both expensive and processed; I wanted the real deal, straight from the tree, man! The last month or two I’ve been going every other week or so to replenish my supplies. One kilogram costs 180 – 200 shillings (about $2.50) and it’s totally worth it. I also had some camel stew. When in Rome, right?

I have also discovered sweet potatoes. I never liked them when I was in the USA, I dunno why. I have learned that they’re pretty good here when you mix them with githeri (maize and beans). What I like is that I don’t have to add ANYTHING other than a few tea spoons of oil. No spices. No salt. I just boil the maize and beans in water for an hour or so, then peel, boil, and mash the sweet potatoes and then fry it all together with some oil. Natural goodness! Now all I have to do is start eating raw, uncooked vegetables.

Yes, I will cook authentic Kenyan food for you when I return to the USA.

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