Meet Mahamri, A Popular Kenyan Breakfast Item

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Mahamri is a popular Kenyan breakfast item, often enjoyed with chai (tea) or as a snack. These slightly sweet, deep-fried bread rolls are fluffy on the inside with a golden, crispy outside. They are similar to mandazi but are traditionally made with coconut milk, giving them a rich flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional for flavor)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 tbsp butter or margarine
  • Oil for frying
  • Warm water (as needed)

Instructions:

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with a little warm water and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and cardamom. Add the coconut milk, butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix everything together to form a soft dough. If the dough is too dry, add a little warm water or more coconut milk.
  3. Knead the dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
  4. Shape the mahamri: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into small balls (golf-ball size). Roll each ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick, then cut the circle into quarters.
  5. Fry the mahamri: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the mahamri in batches, turning them occasionally until they puff up and are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve warm: Mahamri are best served warm with chai or as an accompaniment to other dishes like beans or stew.

Read: A Traditional Kenyan Breakfast featuring Chapati, Omelette, and spiced Kenyan black tea

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve mahamri with spiced Kenyan chai for a classic combination.
  • They can also be paired with ndengu (green grams) or a simple bean stew for a more filling breakfast.

Would you like an image of beautifully served mahamri with chai?