How to Cook Githeri: Kenya’s classic bean and maize dish

Discover how to make githeri, a traditional Kenyan meal of maize, beans or peas. Learn its cultural roots, variations and how to prepare this hearty one-pot dish at home.

Rooted in Kenya’s kikuyu community and embraced across the country, this simple combination of boiled maize and beans represents resilience, nourishment and unity. From school lunch plates to almost every Kenyan household, githeri has long been a symbol of sustenance and cultural pride.

Ingredients (serves 4-6) 2 cups dried maize (or canned/frozen sweetcorn for a quicker version)

• 2 cups dried beans (red kidney, pinto or local varieties)
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 table spoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• Royco
• 5 medium potatoes (peeled, washed and cut into quarters)
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 1-2 carrots diced
• Cooking oil
• Salt to taste
• Water for boiling
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soak and boil:

Soak maize and beans overnight. Rinse, then boil together in water until soft (about 1.5-2hrs). alternatively, use a pressure cooker for faster results.

2. Sauté the flavors:

In a separate pan, heat oil. Sauté onions until golden, then add garlic, ginger, carrots, potatoes and bell pepper. Cook until softened.

3. Add tomatoes and spices:

Stir in chopped tomatoes. Cook until they form a thick sauce. Season with Royco, salt and optional spices like curry powder or paprika for flavor

4. Mix and simmer:

Add the boiled maize and beans mixture to the pan. Stir well, simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to blend

5. Serve hot:

Garnish with fresh coriander. Enjoy with avocado, chapati or on its own.

Modern variations of githeri

• Fried githeri: After boiling, the dish is pan-fried with spices, onions and vegetables for added flavor.
• Githeri with meat: Add beef or minced meat to make it more filling.
• Githeri with greens: Mix with Sukuma wiki (kale) or spinach for a nutrient boost.
• Creamy githeri: Some recipes now incorporate coconut milk or a cream for richness.