A Journey Through Flavor: Ugali and the Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Ugali: A Kenyan Staple

When you think of the cuisine from East Africa, particularly from Kenya, one dish immediately comes to mind: Ugali. It is not just a food; it is a cultural symbol that defines the Kenyan cuisine. Ugali is the quintessential Kenyan dish, easy to prepare, and very popular due to its affordability and use of easily accessible ingredients.

How to Make Ugali

Ugali is a simple dish that requires just a few ingredients: water and maize flour. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious side:

Boil water until it is hot. Add maize flour, stirring continuously for 10 to 20 minutes until it forms a thick paste. Serve with your choice of side dishes such as fried sukuma wiki (collard greens), vegetables, or protein like beans, beef, mutton, pork, fish, chicken, or eggs.

Ugali can also be enjoyed as a porridge by adding more hot water to the maize flour and cooking it until it reaches the desired consistency. This versatile dish has become popular across various national boundaries, mainly in East, West, and some Southern African countries. Despite its widespread popularity, Ugali's roots lie in Kenya and Tanzania.

Ugali Variations

Ugali may be the same across various regions, but it is known by different names. In my tribe, we call it 'Ugali ku-Taita', signifying its cultural significance. While it may not be the most flavorful dish on its own, the combination of the right stew and spices can make all the difference.

The Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Just as Ugali reflects the rich culinary traditions of Kenya, the Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich on a Kaiser roll typifies the culinary heritage of the Northeastern United States, specifically the New Jersey/New York/Connecticut (CT/NJ/CT) region.

How to Make the Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Begin by splitting the Kaiser roll. If you're in the New York metropolitan area, bagels are also a great substitute for the Kaiser roll.

Fry a few slices of Taylor ham. Remember, don’t call it “pork roll”; the term Taylor ham is the correct name. To ensure the slice does not curl up during cooking, make the “fireman’s cut,” often favored by firefighters due to its resemblance to the Maltese cross emblem. This cut helps maintain the slice's shape.

Once the ham is cooked, remove it to a holding plate. Add a pat of butter to the pan and lightly toast the Kaiser roll. Once it is done, stick the ham inside the roll, and add your choice of cheese—American, cheddar, or a mix like Emmenthal or Gruyere.

Fry an egg or two. You want them to be lightly cooked, with the yolks jelled or just set. Fold the whites over while cooking to keep a neat ‘bun-shaped’ form factor.

Drop the eggs onto the cheese in the sandwich to help it melt properly. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, hot sauce, or ketchup to your taste.

The Significance of the Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich

The Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich is a beloved comfort food in the Northeast. The cut of Taylor ham used is often a imported product with a rich history, and the combination of a savory meat, a soft melty cheese, and a hearty roll defines this meal. Just as Ugali is a must-try when you visit Kenya, the Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich is a must-try when you visit the Northeast.

Regional Cuisine and Culture

These dishes are not just food; they are a reflection of the cultural ethos and traditions of their regions. Ugali in Kenya and the Taylor Ham Egg and Cheese Sandwich in the Northeast of the United States are more than just meals—they tell the stories of their people and their history.