Kikomando is a popular Ugandan street food that combines sliced chapati (a type of flatbread) with fried beans. The name “kikomando” comes from the word “commando,” implying that the meal is robust and filling, ideal for someone who needs strength or wants a hearty meal. Kikomando is widely loved in Uganda for its affordability, simplicity, and satisfying taste.

Why Ugandans love Kikomando

1. Affordable: Kikomando is relatively inexpensive to prepare, making it accessible to many people.
2. Filling and nutritious: The combination of chapati and beans provides a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins, making it a satisfying meal.
3. Versatile: It can be customized with various toppings and sauces like avocado, shredded cabbage, hot sauce, or even fried eggs.
4. Quick and easy to prepare: It’s easy to find in many roadside stalls and restaurants, making it a go-to meal for people on the move or anyone craving a fast, delicious meal.

How to make your own

Ingredients

• Chapati: 1-2 large, freshly made or store-bought
• Cooked beans: 1-2 cups, preferably small red or black beans
• Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
• Tomato: 1, diced
• Garlic: 1-2 cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, shredded cabbage, chopped chilli, or hot sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: Heat a pan with oil, then add the onions and garlic, frying until golden. Add the diced tomatoes, and let them soften. Add the cooked beans, and stir well. Season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for about five minutes.
2. Slice the chapati: Cut the chapati into small pieces (usually in strips or squares).
3. Combine: Serve the chapati pieces in a bowl, pour the beans over the chapati, and mix gently.
4. Add toppings: Add avocado slices, shredded cabbage, or hot sauce if desired.

This simple, homemade kikomando captures the essence of the Ugandan favourite. The beans’ flavours meld with the chapati, making it deliciously satisfying.