Ugali Stuffed Energy Balls Recipe | Healthy Kenyan Snack Idea

Ugali Stuffed Energy Balls are a creative fusion of traditional Kenyan cuisine and modern snacking. These wholesome bites combine nutrient-rich ugali with natural sweeteners like dates, energy-boosting oats, and creamy peanut butter to form a snack that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout fuel, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these energy balls celebrate the familiar taste of ugali in a fun, convenient way. They're easy to make, easy to carry, and a hit with all ages. Christmas is just around the corner and I cannot believe it! Okay enough excitement. Today's recipe is something I have been playing with in my head . I cant believe it actually turned out so great. Kenyans do love their Ugali so I kept thinking how I can make it into a savory sort of snack but still maintaining its authenticity.

INGREDIENTS

Cooked Ugali
Fried Sukuma Wiki (Kales/Collard Greens)
1 Teaspoon  Chili Flakes

METHOD

Cook the ugali using this simple method

For the sukuma wiki chop them fry in onions garlic and paprika

Make round balls and stuff with veggies

UGALI STUFFED ENERGY BALLS

Recipe by Mulunga Alukwe

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 Minutes
Total time: 20 Minutes
Yield: 2 Servings
Ingredients

• 2 Cups Maize Flour
• 1 Cup Water
• 1 Bunch Sukuma Wiki (Kales/Collar Greens)
• 1 Teaspoon Chili Flakes
• 1 Onion
• 2 Garlic Cloves
• 1 Teaspoon Paprika

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the ugali using this simple method
2. For the sukuma wiki (kales/collard greens)chop them fry in onions garlic and paprika
3. Make round balls and stuff with veggies
4. Warm the ugali energy balls up before serving

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Ugali Stuffed Energy Balls

These hearty energy balls combine the sustaining power of ugali (a cooked maize flour dough staple in East Africa) with naturally sweet and nutrient-rich fillings like dates, nuts, and seeds. Rolled into bite-sized portions, they’re perfect for post-workout fuel or on-the-go snacks.

🧾 Printable Nutrition Card (per 1 ball, ~35g)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	~110 kcal	Moderate energy—ideal for a quick energy boost.
Carbohydrates	~15 g	Source of slow-digesting energy from maize and dates.
Dietary Fiber	~2 g	Aids digestion; may vary depending on added nuts/seeds.
Sugars (Natural)	~6–8 g	Derived from dates or raisins; no refined sugar.
Protein	~2–3 g	Comes from nuts, seeds, and a bit from maize flour.
Fat	~4–5 g	Healthy fats from nuts or seeds used in stuffing.
Iron	~5–7% DV	Supports energy and oxygen transport.
Potassium	~100–150 mg	Helps regulate hydration and muscle function.

Notes:

• Ugali acts as the outer "shell," keeping the filling moist and compact.
• You can customize the stuffing with chia seeds, groundnuts, dried mango, or even cocoa nibs.
• Store refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for 1 month.

Dietary Information Table

Diet Type	Status	Notes
Vegan/Vegetarian	✅ Yes	As long as honey is not used. Use dates or maple syrup if needed.
Gluten-Free	✅ Yes	Ugali is made from maize flour (cornmeal), naturally gluten-free.
Nut-Free	⚠️ Optional	Many fillings contain nuts; swap with seeds (e.g., sunflower, pumpkin).
Dairy-Free	✅ Yes	Contains no dairy by default.
Low-Glycemic	⚠️ Moderate	Contains natural sugars from fruits—best eaten in moderation.
Kid-Friendly	✅ Yes	Soft, sweet, and nutritious—great lunchbox item.
Soy-Free	✅ Yes	Does not contain soy.

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.