15. Kenyan Pilau (Spiced Rice with Beef, Chicken or Goat)



In Kenya, Pilau isn’t just a meal, it’s a statement. You’ll find it served at weddings, graduations, Sunday family gatherings, and even quiet evenings at home when someone wants to make the day feel special. While it originates from the coastal Swahili culture, Pilau has become a treasured dish from Mombasa to Nairobi to Kisumu, known for its deep spice aroma, tender meat, and signature brown color. Every spoonful tells a story of family, celebration, and memories.



Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Main Ingredients:
  • 2 cups long-grain basmati rice, rinsed
  • 500g beef (stewing cuts), cubed
  • 1 large red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 large tomatoes, blended or grated
  • 4 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 4 cups hot water or beef broth
  • Dhania


Pilau Spice Mix:

  • 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
  • Or you can buy ready-made Pilau Masala Spices.


Optional:

  • 1 beef stock cube
  • 1 potato, cubed (optional for a thick texture)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beef 

  1. Boil the cubed beef with salt, garlic, and ginger until tender (about 30–40 minutes).
  2. Reserve the broth and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Spices

  1. In a large sufuria or heavy pot, heat oil over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until very dark brown (not burnt), which gives Pilau its classic color.
  3. Add your pilau spice mix, stir for 1–2 minutes to bloom the flavors.




Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beef
  1. Add blended tomatoes and cook down until thick and the oil separates.
  2. Stir in the cooked beef (and potatoes, if using) and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes.



Step 4: Add Rice and Liquid

  1. Add rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
  2. Pour in hot broth or water (ratio: 2 parts water to 1 part rice).
  3. Add beef cube if using. Taste and adjust salt.



 Step 5: Cook Pilau
  1. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  2. Cover with a tight lid and simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  3. Once done, fluff gently with a fork.



Serve With:

  • Kachumbari (tomato-onion salad)
  • Sliced bananas
  • Plain yogurt or maziwa mala
  • Chapati (optional side for extra celebration)



Tips:

  • For a stronger flavor, make your own whole-spice mix and grind it fresh.
  • Avoid stirring while the rice is cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Pilau tastes even better the next day!








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