Authentic Nyama Choma Recipe

Enjoy the rich flavors of Nyama Choma, a beloved Kenyan grilled meat dish, perfect for community gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed.
A plate with cubes of grilled meat and a side salad, garnished with chopped vegetables, showcasing an authentic Nyama Choma recipe. A fork is placed on the right side of the plate.
A white plate containing grilled meat cubes, showcasing an authentic Nyama Choma recipe, and a side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and possibly grains, set on a light gray surface.

Authentic Nyama Choma Recipe

An asian woman smiling in front of a potted plant.Hannah Lee
Nyama Choma, a beloved Kenyan dish of grilled meat, perfect for sharing during community gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Meal Type Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Kenyan
Servings 4
Calories 654 kcal
Difficulty Easy
Ingredient Cost $14
Shopping Cost$28

Equipment

  • Grill or barbecue
  • Tongs
  • Knife
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 lbs beef cut into chunks, or goat meat
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon thyme dried

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine vegetable oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, ground cumin, paprika, and dried thyme.
    2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon thyme

Marinate the Meat:

  • Add the meat chunks to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
    2 lbs beef
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Grill the Meat:

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • Grill the marinated meat chunks, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char, about 30-45 minutes depending on the size of the chunks.

Serve:

  • Serve hot, accompanied by kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) and ugali.

Notes

For an authentic experience, use charcoal for grilling to enhance the smoky flavor.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preference.

Nutrition

Calories: 654kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 40gFat: 53gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gTrans Fat: 3gCholesterol: 161mgSodium: 744mgPotassium: 694mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 289IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 61mgIron: 5mg
Keyword Community Gathering, Grilled Meat, Kenyan Cuisine, Nyama Choma, Traditional Dish

Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements

Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Nyama Choma is a beloved dish that embodies the spirit of community and celebration in rural Kenya. This grilled meat, typically beef or goat, is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices that enhances its natural richness. The grilling process imparts a delicious smoky flavor, resulting in tender, juicy meat that is perfect for sharing during gatherings. Nyama Choma is often enjoyed alongside traditional accompaniments such as ugali or kachumbari, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It serves not only as a satisfying meal but also as an important social experience, bringing friends and neighbors together around the grill. Each bite of Nyama Choma is a testament to the culinary traditions that foster connection and camaraderie within the community, making it a cherished choice for celebrations and casual gatherings alike.

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