Wali wa Kukaanga (Kenyan Fried Rice)
Wali wa Kukaanga is a flavorful Kenyan take on fried rice, featuring boiled rice stir-fried with aromatic spices, onions, turmeric, and a medley of colorful vegetables. It's a versatile dish often served as a side to chicken dishes or enjoyed on its own with a fresh salad.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Cooked rice(preferably day-old rice)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 medium Carrots(diced)
- 1/2 cup Green peas(fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup Corn kernels(fresh or frozen)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- 2
Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the turmeric powder and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- 5
Add the diced carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- 6
Add the green peas and corn kernels. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- 7
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with your spoon.
- 8
Stir-fry everything together for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated through and well combined with the vegetables and spices.
- 9
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- 10
Serve hot, optionally with a side salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using day-old rice is best for fried rice as it is drier and less likely to become mushy.
- ✓Adjust the amount of turmeric to your preference for color and flavor.
- ✓Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or cabbage.
🔄 Variations
- Add scrambled eggs or cooked chicken for a more complete meal.
- Incorporate a dash of soy sauce or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.