By Dennis Juma
When you talk about Kenyan street food, the conversation can’t go far without mentioning the holy trinity: smokie pasua, smocha, and mutura. These snacks are not just a quick fix for hunger; they are part of Nairobi’s culture — a true street delicacy. It’s almost impossible to stroll past a vendor without succumbing to the irresistible aroma, the sizzling sound of the grill, and the enticing sight of a freshly sliced smokie or a juicy mutura being served.
A day without grabbing a smokie pasua, a smocha, or a piece of mutura leaves a real void — not just in your stomach but also in your spirit. You can almost feel the guilt of not showing love to your local snack guy, who counts on your daily visits to survive. Nairobians’ obsession with these street treats is unmatched. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, a ritual, a small daily celebration of life.
This deep-rooted love for street snacks has now found its way into music, thanks to Teslah and Bensoul. Their latest jam, “Smokie Pasua,” captures the very spirit of Nairobi’s snack culture and turns it into a soulful, cheeky love song. If you’re a true snack lover, “Smokie Pasua” should be topping your favorites playlist by now.
But “Smokie Pasua” isn’t just any song. It’s a dedication to a significant other, cleverly wrapped in Kenyan slang and street food references. The track carries the kind of flirty, playful vibe that makes you crave not only your favorite snack but also those wild, “slutty” moments with your partner. The term “sausage” here is laden with double meaning — not everyone may relate directly, but everyone can vibe to the sweet melodies and clever wordplay.
Teslah and Bensoul have delivered a must-listen track, one that perfectly merges street life, Nairobi slang, romance, and humor into a song that’s both relatable and unforgettable. “Smokie Pasua” is a tribute not only to love but also to the everyday experiences that make Nairobi life so vibrant and unique.
So next time you’re out grabbing a smokie pasua or a slice of mutura, plug in your earphones, blast “Smokie Pasua,” and vibe out, because few things are as authentically Kenyan as this combo of street food and soul music.