It is now permissible to eat buffalo meat in Kenya after the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mr Mutahi Kagwe, gazetted a notice on January 31, 2025, declaring the Water Buffalo as a food animal.
“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 2 of the Meat Control Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, declares the Domesticated Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) as a food animal for purposes of the Act,” read the Notice which is now part of the Meat Control Act (Cap 356) on the Declaration of Animals.
A novelty to Kenyans considering buffalo meat was generally designated as bush meat and considered illegal to consume it in Kenya, it is important to now note that the Water buffalo is a domesticated animal and is sometimes used for farming while the Cape buffalo are what are primarily found in the wild in Africa.
Having made the distinction, Nairobi Post now checks out how curious consumers can go about picking the best cuts of Water buffalo meat soon coming to a butcher near them.
The first thing a consumer should look out for is the color of the meat. Fresh buffalo meat is said to be deep red to dark reddish-brown in color. Avoid any cuts with gray or greenish tints; and since buffalo meat is leaner than beef, it will appear leaner and darker.
The smell of the meat is also key- it should have a mild, clean smell. Additionally, go for cuts that feel firm and slightly springy to the touch- don’t go for those that feel slimy or excessively dry.
Research also revealed that consumers should pick cuts that have slight marbling (thin streaks of fat within the muscle fibers) as it helps with tenderness and flavor. Ribeye, tenderloin and striploin are best for grilling and steaks while shank, brisket and chuck roast are best for stews.
Now you have your preferred cuts. Here’s one of the most popular- according to research- and accessible ways to enjoy water buffalo meat: In Water buffalo burgers. Check out the recipe below:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground water buffalo meat
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1 egg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1 tsp olive oil (to add moisture if cooking well-done)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground water buffalo meat, quick oats, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer your burgers well-done, consider adding a teaspoon of olive oil to maintain moisture.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the patties on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness. Given the leanness of water buffalo meat, it’s advisable not to overcook to maintain juiciness.
- Once cooked to your liking, remove the patties from the grill. Serve on buns with your preferred toppings and condiments.
