Fried Potatoes (Kenyan Bajias)

Kenyan Bajias are seasoned, battered and fried potatoes that are found all over Kenya. It is a very popular street food that was influenced by the Indian population who were brought there to work on the railroad. The potatoes are sliced thin, and then placed in a batter that is seasoned up with the flavours of India. These Kenyan Bajias are delicious when dipped in a mango chutney called madras.

2 medium potatoes
1 cup chickpea flour
¼ cup rice flour
¼ tsp. turmeric
¼ tsp. ground cumin
¼ tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. dried fenugreek leaves
½ tsp. red chile powder
1 pinch garam masala
½ tsp. ground coriander
2 tsp. ginger, minced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 cup water
oil, for frying

In a large bowl combine the flours, and all the spices.

Add in the cilantro and slowly add in the water until you have a thick batter. Add more or less water as necessary.

Slice the potatoes using a mandolin or knife.

Heat the oil to medium high heat.

Place the potatoes in the batter, coating each piece well on both sides. Put in the hot oil and fry until golden and flip to repeat on other side. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Do this until all the potatoes are cooked.

Serve hot with madras (mango chutney).

Makes 4 servings.