Githeri (Beans and Maize Stew)
A hearty and nutritious one-pot meal made from boiled maize and beans, often enhanced with vegetables and sometimes meat. It's a staple in many Kenyan households, particularly among the Kikuyu community.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried mixed beans (e.g., kidney beans, pinto beans)(soaked overnight and drained)
- 2 cups Dried maize kernels(soaked overnight and drained)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 6-8 cups Water or vegetable broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 cups Optional: Spinach or kale(chopped)
- 250 g Optional: Diced beef or chicken
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, combine the soaked and drained beans and maize. Add enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until beans and maize are tender.
⏱️ 1 hour - 2
While the beans and maize are simmering, heat the vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with onions and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a sauce, about 8-10 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
If using meat, add it to the tomato mixture and brown it. Then, add this sautéed mixture to the pot with the beans and maize.
💡 Tip: This step is optional, but adds depth of flavor if meat is used. - 6
Add more water or broth if needed to ensure everything is submerged. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 7
If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking until wilted.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 8
Serve hot. Githeri can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of ugali.
💡 Tip: The consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less liquid.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the beans and maize overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and improving digestibility.
- ✓For a quicker version, you can use canned beans and corn, but the flavor will be less authentic.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili if you prefer a spicier stew.
- ✓Githeri often tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers.
- Incorporate a bay leaf or a sprig of rosemary for added aroma.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables or mushrooms.