Nyama Choma and Smocha Charm Food Lovers Worldwide

Kenya’s street food culture is undergoing a notable transformation, gaining international recognition through the efforts of both local and global content creators.

This culinary revolution is prominently featured on platforms like TikTok, where hashtags related to food and street cuisine have garnered millions of posts, introducing the vibrant flavours of Kenyan street food to a worldwide audience. Among the standout offerings is smocha, a delectable combination of smokies, chapati, and salad, which has emerged as a popular choice alongside the traditional favourite nyama choma. The affordability of these dishes caters to budget-conscious consumers while providing crucial income for vendors facing high living and operational costs in a challenging economic environment.

The economic landscape in Kenya has led to a surge in side hustles, with a survey by credit firm Tala revealing that two-thirds of employed Kenyans have sought additional income sources. Street food vendors have capitalized on this trend, leveraging platforms like TikTok to not only sell their dishes but also influence eating habits through viral videos. The BBC has noted the power of social media in propelling food trends and recipes to viral status, often accelerated by food influencers with substantial followings.

Content creators play a key role in amplifying Kenya’s street food scene, showcasing their culinary expertise and the rich history of Kenyan cuisine. Some creators have focused on sustainable food production, addressing concerns about the food industry’s substantial contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, which account for up to 35 per cent of total emissions. Several notable content creators have emerged as champions of Kenyan street food. @adiamos1 stands out for his comprehensive approach, covering the entire food cycle from planting to consumption.

This creator skillfully connects dishes to Kenya’s cultural heritage, infusing their content with humour and reflecting on the portrayal of certain foods in the country’s comics and satire. Another influential figure is @ifys.kitchen, who has documented her exploration of various Kenyan street foods during a visit to the country. Ify’s content showcases an array of delicacies, from mahindi choma to mutura, highlighting their irresistible flavours and sharing the experience of taking some treats home as part of her culinary journey.

@davidsbeenhere, a globetrotting food enthusiast, has captured the essence of Kenyan street biryani while offering travel tips for worldwide destinations. David’s videos not only showcase the dish but also reflect the vibrant street food culture of Kenya through his “Kenyan Street Biryani Adventure.” @bitebuddies1 has established itself as a hub for food lovers in Kenya, excelling in revealing the secrets behind popular street foods and guiding viewers to the best and cleanest vendors. Their content features a diverse range of Kenyan cuisine and unique street food combinations, with their mutura videos attracting millions of views.