10 Popular Nigerian Street Foods You Must Try

Keywords: Nigerian street food, popular dishes, street food recipes

Nigeria’s vibrant street food scene is a reflection of its diverse culture, bold flavors, and culinary creativity. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets or taking a stroll through city streets, you’ll find an array of affordable, delicious, and satisfying dishes sold by vendors. From snacks to hearty meals, Nigerian street food has something for everyone. Here are 10 popular Nigerian street foods you absolutely must try!

1. Puff-Puff

What It Is: Puff-puff is a soft, deep-fried dough ball made from flour, sugar, yeast, and nutmeg. With its golden brown crust and fluffy interior, puff-puff is a fan favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Why You Should Try It: Its sweet, simple flavor makes it the perfect snack for any time of the day. Pair it with tea or a cold drink for a satisfying treat.

Where to Find It: Commonly sold at roadside stalls, markets, and events.

2. Suya

What It Is: Suya is a spicy grilled meat skewer, often made from beef, chicken, or ram, coated in a flavorful peanut-based spice mix called yaji. This delicacy hails from the northern Hausa region of Nigeria.

Why You Should Try It: Suya’s smoky, spicy flavor is irresistible, and the peanut spice adds a unique nutty kick.

Where to Find It: Night markets, street vendors, and suya spots throughout Nigeria.

3. Akara

What It Is: Akara, or bean cakes, are crispy fritters made from blended black-eyed peas, onions, and spices. They are deep-fried to perfection and served hot.

Why You Should Try It: Akara is a protein-rich snack that’s both filling and delicious. It’s a favorite for breakfast or a light evening bite.

Where to Find It: Street-side vendors and early morning food stalls.

4. Boli (Roasted Plantain)

What It Is: Boli is ripe plantain roasted over an open flame and often served with groundnut (peanuts) or spicy pepper sauce.

Why You Should Try It: The natural sweetness of the plantain caramelizes when roasted, giving it a smoky and savory flavor.

Where to Find It: Street corners, markets, and grill vendors across Nigeria.

5. Gala and La Casera

What It Is: Gala is a savory sausage roll made of flaky pastry and spiced minced meat, while La Casera is a popular apple-flavored soda. Together, they form the ultimate on-the-go snack combo.

Why You Should Try It: This combination is affordable, portable, and perfect for a quick snack during a busy day.

Where to Find It: Sold by hawkers on buses, at traffic stops, and road junctions.

6. Moi Moi

What It Is: Moi Moi is a steamed bean pudding made from blended peeled beans, onions, peppers, and spices. Sometimes, it’s garnished with fish, egg, or crayfish.

Why You Should Try It: Moi Moi is light, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it a nutritious street food option.

Where to Find It: Food vendors, roadside stalls, and market canteens.

7. Roasted Corn and Coconut

What It Is: Roasted corn is fresh corn-on-the-cob grilled over hot coals, often paired with coconut or pears (ube).

Why You Should Try It: This snack is a delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and crunchy flavors.

Where to Find It: Available in open markets and by street vendors, especially during corn season.

8. Abacha (African Salad)

What It Is: Abacha is a traditional Igbo dish made from dried, shredded cassava. It is often mixed with garden eggs, ugba (oil bean), onions, and spicy palm oil sauce.

Why You Should Try It: Abacha is a refreshing, tangy dish that delivers unique textures and flavors in every bite.

Where to Find It: Street vendors and local food spots, especially in the eastern part of Nigeria.

9. Ewa Agoyin

What It Is: Ewa Agoyin is a dish of soft, mashed beans served with a spicy, smoky pepper sauce made with palm oil and dried peppers. This dish originates from the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria.

Why You Should Try It: The creamy beans paired with the fiery sauce create a bold and comforting dish.

Where to Find It: Street food vendors and roadside stalls, particularly in Lagos.

10. Kilishi

What It Is: Kilishi is Nigeria’s version of beef jerky, made by sun-drying thinly sliced meat coated in a spicy marinade.

Why You Should Try It: Kilishi is a savory, protein-packed snack with a satisfying chewy texture and intense flavor.

Where to Find It: Northern Nigeria, roadside vendors, and specialty food shops.

Conclusion

Nigerian street food is a flavorful representation of the country’s diverse culture, history, and love for bold, hearty dishes. Whether you’re craving something sweet like puff-puff, smoky like suya, or hearty like ewa agoyin, these street foods offer an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Have you tried any Nigerian street foods? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!