Black History Month: What My Culture Means To Me by Imani
Whenever people ask me what I miss most about Kenya, my answer is always the food. One of the things that connects me most to home is the food that so many Kenyans grow up eating together.
My favourite food is chapati. Chapati can be served with dengu, kamande, or beef stew, and it’s often made during celebrations, holidays, birthdays, or family gatherings. When we’re making chapati, the kitchen is always full of people talking, laughing, and sneaking pieces before dinner is ready.
Another classic Kenyan meal is mukimo, one of my favourites. It’s a comforting mix of mashed potatoes, maize, beans, and greens, and it’s usually eaten with nyama choma or beef stew. It’s simple but so filling and always reminds me of home-cooked meals shared with family.
We also have ugali, our national dish. It’s especially good when it’s served with nyama choma and sukuma wiki. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together around the table.
There are so many dishes I could talk about, and I never realised how much I loved them until I moved to the UK for university. Back home, they were just normal meals, and now, whenever I find a Kenyan restaurant or cook chapati with friends, it feels like a little piece of home.
One thing I love about Kenyan culture is how food is connected to the community. We’re always encouraging people to eat more, and sharing food is one of the easiest ways we show love and hospitality.
For me, Kenyan food is more than just something I eat. It’s comfort, connection, and a reminder of where I come from. And yes, I’ll happily spend the rest of my life convincing people that Kenyan chapati is the best chapati in the world!