Cutting Vegetables

Vegetable vendors (Mama mbogas) in Kenya often cut cabbage, spinach, kale and collard greens using their hands without the aid of a chopping board.

The mama mboga uses a firm but controlled grip with one hand to hold the bundle of vegetables, Often the forefinger is outstretched while the other fingers grasp the leaves.

The other hand wields the sharp knife with a lot of dexterity. The cuts are likely short, precise, and rhythmic.

The wrist is the primary mover, with controlled flicks to achieve the quick chopping motion.

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Variations

"Claw" Grip: For larger bunches of vegetables, the mama mboga might use a "claw" grip with her holding hand. This involves spreading her fingers to create a stable base and using her thumb to apply additional pressure to hold the vegetables firmly.