If you’ve ever craved a crispy, golden snack bursting with spice and flavor, Viazi Karai is the answer. A beloved Kenyan street food, these turmeric-infused fried potatoes are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Traditionally served with a spicy tamarind sauce or ukwaju dip, this dish is a coastal delicacy that has found its way to tables across the country.

Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to make authentic Viazi Karai at home!

Pairing Suggestions:

• Tamarind Juice — a sweet and tangy balance to the spice.
• Samosa — crispy and savory for the ultimate snack platter.
• Ukwaju Sauce Dip — rich and flavorful, perfect for dipping.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
• 1 cup chickpea flour (gram flour)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1 cup water (or as needed for batter consistency)
• Oil for deep frying

For the Ukwaju Sauce:

• 1 cup tamarind pulp
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• Salt and sugar to taste
• 1/2 cup warm water

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 mins	20 mins	35 mins	4-6

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, then cut them into large chunks.

2. Make the Batter

In a bowl, mix the chickpea flour, turmeric, chili powder, cumin, salt, and garlic paste. Gradually add water while whisking to create a smooth, thick batter.

3. Coat the Potatoes

Dip the boiled potato chunks into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Fry Until Golden

Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the battered potatoes in batches, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

5. Prepare the Ukwaju Sauce

Mix the tamarind pulp with warm water, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then strain the sauce for a smooth dip.

Nutritional Benefits

Viazi Karai is a comforting indulgence, but it still packs some nutritional benefits:

• Potatoes provide energy-boosting carbs and fiber.
• Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Chickpea Flour is rich in plant-based protein and iron.

For more insights on the health benefits of turmeric and chickpea flour, check out reliable sources like Healthline.

Nutrition Value Table

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	7g
Fat	10g
Fiber	5g
Vitamin C	15% RDI

Pairing Suggestions

Take your snack game to the next level with these perfect pairings:

• Tamarind Juice — the sweet, tangy notes balance the spice.
• Samosa — for a complete street food experience.
• Ukwaju Sauce Dip — a must-have for that extra kick.

 

As We Conclude

Viazi Karai is more than just a snack — it’s a taste of Kenya’s vibrant street food culture. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, these golden bites with a side of tamarind dip will transport your taste buds to the coast.

Why not try making this recipe today? And if you do, don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing glass of tamarind juice and some crispy samosas.

Got questions or want to share your experience? Drop a comment or reach out — we’d love to hear from you!

As Always,
Ramula Is Home