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Kenyan Vegetarian Breakfast Platter: Succulent Ugali, Savory Kachumbari, and Creamy Matoke

A flavorful kenyan breakfast perfect for vegetarian eaters - made for visual appeal and culinary depth.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total) - Prep Time: 10 minutes - Cook Time: 25 minutes - Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽 Servings: 2 servings
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
🌎 Cuisine: Kenyan

Allergens

Coconut (in ugali)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups maize meal flour (for ugali)
  • 1 cup coconut milk (for ugali)
  • 1/4 cup water (for ugali)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 large ripe plantain (for matoke)
  • 2 tablespoons oil (for matoke)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 cup tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for kachumbari)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ugali: In a medium bowl, mix together the maize meal flour and salt. Gradually add coconut milk and water while stirring until a smooth dough forms. Cook the dough in a pot over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until it becomes firm and slightly crumbly. Remove from heat and let it cool down.
  2. Steam the plantain: In a steamer, steam the whole plantain for about 15 20 minutes or until softened. Slice it into rounds when cooked.
  3. Cook the matoke: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and ginger, sautéing them until fragrant. Stir in kale, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until softened. Add the steamed plantain rounds and gently toss to combine.
  4. Prepare the kachumbari: In a bowl, mix together the finely chopped onion, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble the platter: Place a portion of ugali in the center of the plate, top it with a generous serving of matoke, and sprinkle kachumbari on top.

Chef’s Insight

Cook the ugali until it forms a firm, slightly crumbly texture - Use ripe plantains for creamy matoke

Notes

This recipe can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or sauces

Cultural or Historical Background

Ugali is a staple in Kenyan cuisine and is often served with various side dishes - Matoke is a traditional dish made from plantains - Kachumbari is a popular East African tomato and onion salad