Nigerian Suya is one of the most famous street foods in West Africa. These spicy grilled meat skewers are coated in a bold peanut-based spice blend and grilled over open flames until smoky and irresistible. Suya is commonly enjoyed in the evenings and served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and cabbage.
If you love bold flavors and authentic African street food, this Nigerian Suya recipe is a must-try.
What Is Suya?
Nigerian Suya is made from thinly sliced beef, chicken, or goat meat, threaded onto skewers, coated in suya spice (yaji), and grilled. The spice blend typically contains ground peanuts, chili powder, ginger, garlic, and other spices, creating a unique heat and nutty flavor.
Suya is especially popular in northern Nigeria and has become a beloved snack across the country.
Ingredients for Suya
For the Meat
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500g beef, chicken, or goat meat (thinly sliced)
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Wooden skewers (soaked in water)
For the Suya Spice (Yaji)
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½ cup roasted ground peanuts
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1–2 tablespoons chili powder (to taste)
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon ground ginger
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For Grilling
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
How to Make Nigerian Suya
Follow these steps to prepare authentic Suya at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Suya Spice
In a bowl, mix the ground peanuts, chili powder, paprika, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder. Set aside.
Step 2: Skewer the Meat
Thread the thin slices of meat onto the soaked skewers, pressing them flat.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Brush the meat lightly with oil, then generously coat both sides with the suya spice mixture.
Step 4: Grill the Suya
Grill over hot charcoal or a grill pan, turning frequently, until cooked through and slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve Nigerian suya hot with sliced onions, tomatoes, and cabbage.
Tips for the Best Suya
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Slice meat very thin for authentic texture.
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Use roasted peanuts for deeper flavor.
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Grill over charcoal for traditional smokiness.
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Add extra suya spice after grilling for more heat.
What to Serve with Suya
Nigerian Suya is commonly served with:
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Sliced onions
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Fresh tomatoes
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Cabbage
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Flatbread or bread rolls
Why It Is So Popular
Nigerian Suya is loved for its bold spices, smoky aroma, and street-food appeal. It’s quick to prepare, deeply flavorful, and perfect for gatherings or casual meals. Suya represents Nigerian food culture at its most vibrant.
