Ugandan Dining

Most Ugandans produce their own food, cook over an open fire, and eat two meals a day. Table manners in Uganda are as follows: wash your hands before eating, sit on the floor mat during a meal, expect a prayer before eating, children will only speak when asked a question, compliment the mother after the meal, don’t leave the room during a meal, and don’t lean on your left hand or stretch your legs during a meal.

I was recently asked whether I am “okay with limited food options.” With 82% of the Ugandan economy based on agriculture, I was hoping to have some delicious meals made with fresh foods. I had to ask…what exactly does “limited” mean? Here is the list of fresh foods I will enjoy: a plantain banana dish (matoke – green bananas peeled, boiled, and mashed), fruit (probably oranges, papayas, lemons, and pineapple), fresh tilapia, chicken, rice, beans, and potatoes. I was going to make a wise crack about the chicken skin (because I love crispy chicken skin). However, I’m afraid the chicken might be served feathers and all, so I’ll just refrain.

Skinny…here I come!