World Flavors Cookbook

Irio (Mashed Peas and Potatoes)

A Kikuyu staple of mashed potatoes, green peas, and corn — comforting, filling, and deeply traditional.

Cuisine: Kenya

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups maize kernels
• 1 cup cooked beans
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes, peas, maize, and beans together until very soft.
2. Drain most of the water, leaving a little behind.
3. Mash everything together into a coarse, chunky mash.
4. In a pan, sauté onion in oil until translucent and stir into the mash.
5. Season with salt and serve alongside stew or meat.