Urwagwa (Banana Beer)

Urwagwa, a traditional Rwandan beer, is another fantastic addition to plantain/banana-based cuisine. This dish is made with East African highland bananas, which are abundant in Rwanda.

Bananas are first picked when they are green and just beginning to ripen. The traditional method is to dig a hole in the ground and set a controlled fire until the fruit is ripe. However, they are now simply kept near a fire to ripen. The juices from ripe bananas are then extracted by peeling and mashing them. After collecting the juice, roasted sorghum flour is added as natural yeast. After 24 hours of fermentation, the beer is ready to drink!

This Urwagwa beer plays an important role in Rwandan traditional and cultural ceremonies. It is also very popular at weddings. This beer-making tradition is passed down from father to son and is popular throughout the country, including Kigali.