How to make mayonnaise ranch dressing with a Kenyan twist

If you are looking to learn how to make dips for your snacks or meals, ranch dressing is the perfect place to start.

Ranch dressing is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful sauce that can be used as a dip, salad dressing, or even a spread for your sandwiches and wraps.

While the classic ranch recipe uses buttermilk, in Kenya, buttermilk is not always readily available.

The good news is that you can still make delicious homemade ranch using mayonnaise, which is commonly found in Kenyan supermarkets.

This Kenyan-style ranch dressing is easy to make and can be customised with locally available ingredients.

Whether you want to drizzle it over your salad, use it as a dip for viazi karai, or enjoy it with grilled nyama choma, this recipe will elevate your meals.

Ingredients

· 1 cup mayonnaise (Blue Band or any preferred brand)

· ½ cup fresh milk (or mala for a tangy taste)

· 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)

· 1 teaspoon onion powder

· ½ teaspoon black pepper

· 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar

· 1 tablespoon finely chopped dhania (coriander)

· 1 teaspoon dried or fresh parsley

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· ½ teaspoon salt

· ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)

Instructions

Mix the base; in a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and milk (or mala) until smooth. This will create the creamy consistency of the ranch.

Add flavour; stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and sugar. If using fresh garlic, make sure it is finely minced or crushed into a paste.

Add herbs and acidity; mix in the chopped dhania, parsley, and lemon juice. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavour but also helps preserve the dressing.

Adjust consistency; if you want a thinner dressing for salads, add more milk. If you prefer a thicker dip for mishkaki or fries, keep it as is.

Refrigerate and serve; let the ranch sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavours blend well.

How to use the ranch

As a dip – Perfect for viazi karai, bhajia, samosas, or grilled chicken.

As a salad dressing – Drizzle over fresh vegetables, kachumbari, or coleslaw.

For sandwiches and wraps – Spread on chapati wraps, burgers, or toasted bread.

Grilled meats – A great complement to nyama choma, kuku choma, or mshikaki.

Storage Tip

Store the ranch in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Always stir before use.

Now with that! You can make it at home to elevate your dishes.