If you’re a true Kenyan, you understand the nuances of the local communities. If it’s not our pronunciation of words or our great talent of coining phrases, it’s the food we eat – or better still, the way we prepare it. And so when one hears of amatoke or matoke as it is better known, one immediately thinks of the vibrant community located in the western highlands: the Abagusii.
Traditionally, the Abagusii (Kisii) were farmers. With ideal climate and rich soils, they took to farming – with bananas as one of their bountiful harvests. It then comes as no surprise that bananas – matoke – were slowly planted into their food culture. Matoke became a staple. Whether boiled, roasted or stewed, it would be enjoyed, showing its diversity to cater to those in need of a snack to ‘shikilia’ one’s stomach or as a full-fledged meal that would leave a person drowsy and in need of a nice nap.
Amatoke in all its Forms
Amatoke was (and still is) accompanied by traditional indigenous vegetables such as managu or mchicha – creating a wholesome meal and balanced diet. Some sources state that the Kisii’s experimentation with bananas even extended to creating a porridge out of it. This was done in a process that first involved dicing the bananas, and thereafter drying them in the sun. Once sufficiently dried, they’d be transported to the posho mill where they’d be turned into flour. The porridge has been noted to have nutritional value and is said to boost immunity.
While naturally on the sweeter side, it’s clear that Kisii’s of way back then had a knack for both sweet and salty when it came to amatoke meals.
Today, Kisii highlands continue to boom where banana production is concerned and a trip to Nyamira or Kisii counties isn’t complete without indulging in any of the amatoke meals.
That said, even though there are now different ways to prepare matoke and many restaurants around Kenya have it as a meal option, none beats the original Kisii style.
Did you grow up eating matoke? Is it your present signature dish? How do you prepare it? Let us know!
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