IRIO, KENYAN STYLE
Irio is an easy to make, delicious, Kenyan staple side dish. It is usually made with some potatoes, peas and fresh greens. No fancy ingredients are required for this version of mash. It is usually served with stew, grilled meat or fish.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup peas
- 1 -1¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup sweet corn cooked
- 2 cups spinach
- 2-3 tbsp butter
- ¼ tsp pepper powder
Instructions
- Peel and chop the potatoes into big chunks.
- Wash and chop the spinach.
- Remove peas from their pods if you are using fresh ones.
- Add the potatoes in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add water. Cover the pan and allow the water to become hot.
- Add the peas and salt. Cover the pan and cook the potatoes and peas till done.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked peas and potatoes into a mixing bowl. Don't add water.
- Add the spinach in the remaining hot water. Cook for 2-3 minutes till it wilts.
- Mash the potatoes and peas.
- Add the cooked spinach and mash more.
- Add the cooked sweet corn, butter and pepper powder. Add more salt if required.
- Mix well and serve it hot.
Notes
- If you use fresh corn, either white or yellow, you can cook it with the potatoes and peas.
- If you are using red kidney beans, cook them separately as they take longer to cook. In fact if you use any dried beans for irio, it is best to soak them in warm water overnight. Cook them in the pressure cooker or Instant Pot till done.
- If the Irio becomes cold, heat it up in a pan over low heat.
- Serve it with some stew, grilled meat or fish. Or enjoy it on its own.