How to Make Suya (Nigerian Spicy Skewered Meat)

Suya is a beloved Nigerian delicacy that perfectly balances smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. This street food classic, often enjoyed with friends and family, is a simple yet flavorful dish made from skewered meat coated with a blend of spices. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this mouthwatering treat at home, here’s your ultimate guide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make authentic Suya, gather the following:

For the Meat:

• 1 kg beef (sirloin or tenderloin), chicken, or goat meat

• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)

For the Suya Spice Mix (Yaji):

• 3 tablespoons ground peanuts (kuli kuli or peanut powder)

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon bouillon powder (optional)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced onions

• Sliced tomatoes

• Fresh cabbage

• Lemon or lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat

• Slice the meat thinly, about 1/4 inch thick, and cut into long strips for easy skewering.

• Ensure the slices are uniform for even cooking.

2. Mix the Suya Spice (Yaji)

• Combine all the spice ingredients in a bowl. Adjust cayenne pepper for desired heat level.

• Set aside a small portion of the mix for sprinkling after grilling.

3. Coat the Meat

• Thread the sliced meat onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space at the bottom for handling.

• Generously coat each skewer with the Suya spice mix, pressing it firmly into the meat.

4. Let It Marinate

• Place the coated skewers on a tray and cover with plastic wrap.

• Allow the meat to marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

5. Grill the Suya

• Preheat your grill, oven, or charcoal fire to medium-high heat.

• Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

• If using an oven, set it to broil and place the skewers on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Broil for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle the reserved Suya spice mix over the meat for an extra kick.

• Serve hot with sliced onions, tomatoes, fresh cabbage, and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice.

Tips for the Perfect Suya

1. Choose the Right Meat: Tender cuts like sirloin or chicken breast work best for Suya. If using goat meat, marinate it longer for a softer texture.

2. Don’t Skip the Peanuts: Ground peanuts add richness and authenticity to the spice mix.

3. Control the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.

4. Soak the Skewers: Soaking prevents them from catching fire during grilling.

5. Serve Immediately: Suya tastes best when fresh off the grill!

Why You’ll Love Suya

Suya isn’t just food—it’s an experience. From its tantalizing aroma to the satisfying crunch of perfectly grilled meat, Suya is a dish that brings people together. Its versatility makes it perfect for casual dinners, parties, or even as a quick snack.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the vibrant flavors of Nigerian street food right into your home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, Suya is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Nigeria’s culinary heritage!