Uganda is an exciting country located in East Africa, known for its amazing food that reflects its rich culture and traditions. Just like many other places, Uganda has special snacks that you can’t easily find anywhere else, which makes them really special. When I traveled there, I got to taste a bunch of these delicious treats, and three of them stood out to me. These snacks are favorites among the locals and give you a taste of Uganda’s unique flavors and cooking techniques. Each bite is a celebration of local ingredients and traditional recipes that have been shared through the years. I had a great time trying these three Ugandan snacks, and I think they should definitely be on your list of things to try. Whether you go to Uganda or find these snacks somewhere else, I highly suggest you give them a taste! You might discover a new favorite that brings a little bit of Uganda into your life.
Grashoppers
In Uganda, eating grasshoppers is a popular tradition and a big part of their food culture. These grasshoppers, called “nsenene” in the local language, are especially loved during the rainy season when they are easy to find. People often gather them in large amounts because they are seen as a special treat.
In Uganda, nsenene are usually cooked by frying or roasting them and then adding some salt for flavor. They make a great snack on their own or can be mixed into different meals. Not only are they delicious, but grasshoppers are also really good for you since they are packed with protein and important nutrients.
The first time I found out that people eat grasshoppers as a snack, I was totally grossed out! I just couldn’t picture myself eating them. It wasn’t until my second visit that I finally gave them a shot, thanks to my wife who persuaded me to grab a small cup for 5,000 UGx. I was not dissapointed, and everytime I pass by a vendor that sells grasshoppers, I grab some.
Mandazi
A Ugandan mandazi is a tasty snack from East Africa that looks and feels a bit like a doughnut. It’s made by deep-frying a simple mix of flour, sugar, water, and eggs. The dough is usually formed into small circles or triangles and then fried until it turns a nice golden brown, becoming crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. People love to eat Ugandan mandazis as a yummy treat by themselves, and sometimes they add powdered sugar on top for a little extra sweetness. They are often enjoyed with tea or coffee, making them a quick breakfast or snack. You can find mandazis in local bakeries, markets, and street food stalls all over Uganda.
SimSim Balls
Ugandan simsim balls, also known as “simsim” in Uganda, are traditional snacks made primarily from sesame seeds (also known as simsim) and combined with sugar to form a sweet treat. The sesame seeds are roasted and then mixed with melted sugar to bind them together. The mixture is then shaped into small balls and allowed to cool and harden.
Simsim balls are popular for their nutty flavor and crunchy texture, and they are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They are rich in nutrients, as sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. In Uganda and other parts of East Africa, simsim balls can be found in markets and are a common street food option.
Have you given them a try? Do you enjoy them? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear what you think about them.