Banana Muffins by Chef Eric Njue Mithamo, H&S Chef Of The Month

H&S Chef Of The Month

Chef Eric Njue Mithamo

Nationality: Kenyan

Interview With H&S Magazine

Who Is Eric Njue Mithamo?

My name is Chef Eric, but many people know me more as Chef Makoti. I’m a proud husband and father of two. I’m a simple guy who finds satisfaction in making good food and, most importantly, enjoying the experience of eating.

Type Of Cuisine?

I’m a lover of meat and all things related to meat, i.e. be it grilling, smoking, and fire in general, regardless of the cuisine. I enjoy exploring how different parts of the world handle their BBQ; the flavours and changes in texture always fascinate me.

What Inspired You To Become A Chef?

I’ve always loved the kitchen since I was a kid. I never knew I could turn my love for cooking into a career as a man. Then, as a teen, I stumbled upon cooking shows, and men were in the front line looking cool with the white jackets and the controlled chaos in the kitchen, and I was instantly hooked. I knew from there this is what I wanted.

What Is The Biggest Challenge You Have Faced In The Culinary Industry?

As a chef specializing in private chef services, it has been challenging to set up kitchens in various houses or venues for different people. Although we’ve managed to navigate the system, each venue presents its unique challenges.

What’s Your Biggest Achievement In The Culinary Industry?

My biggest achievement has to be a personal one. I ventured into business (EdibleAdventures254) at 21 years old with my wife. It was a scary and confusing endeavour, but the business is still alive and kicking. I consider this to be my biggest success in the industry.

When It comes To Cooking, What Is More Important To You, The Technique, The Ingredients Or The Creativity?

I would pick all, but if I’m pressed to choose one, it would be technique. Technique is everything!

Recipe Of The Week: Banana Muffins

Banana Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 3¼ cup butter or margarine
• 1¼ cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 Tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 ½ cups flour
• ¾ cup vanilla yogurt

Preparation: The Banana Muffins

Preheat the oven at 180 degrees for about 10 minutes. In the meantime, in a bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Now add in all the dry ingredients to this and fold. Next, add one egg at a time and fold in, next the bananas then fold and finally the yogurt and fold in. Finally, pour the muffin mixture into your choice of mould lined with a baking sheet, then bake at 180 degrees for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Plating

Remove the muffins from the moulds and serve with a hot beverage!