Nigerian Suya

Bold and Flavorful Nigerian Suya Recipe with Beef, Hot Pepper, and Kulikuli

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Nigerian Suya is a popular street food in Nigeria, known for its spicy and flavorful grilled meat skewers. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, often enjoyed as a snack or side dish.

History

Suya has its origins in the Hausa people of Northern Nigeria, who traditionally prepared it as a way to preserve meat. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a variety of spices and seasonings, making it a beloved dish across the country.

Ingredients

beef, cut into cubes
ground hot pepper
salt
2 tomatoes, sliced
2 onions, sliced
enough ground kulikuli to cover the meat
mixed spices (optional)
metal skewer for roasting

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the ground pepper, salt, kulikuli, and spices.
Coat the meat thoroughly with the mixture.
Thread the cubed beef onto a thin wooden or metal skewer, alternating with sliced tomatoes and onions.
Place the skewers on a charcoal fire, barbecue maker, local firewood roaster, or in an oven.
Cook one side of the meat until heated through, then flip to cook the other side.
Serve as a snack or side dish.

Variations

Use chicken or shrimp instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add bell peppers and mushrooms to the skewers for a colorful twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the meat for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the meat to prevent them from burning.

- Adjust the amount of ground hot pepper to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Nigerian Suya with sliced onions, tomatoes, and a side of spicy pepper sauce for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute groundnut powder for kulikuli if unavailable.

- Use cayenne pepper or paprika as a substitute for ground hot pepper.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the meat overnight for even more flavor. Store in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Nigerian Suya on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a vibrant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Nigerian Suya with a side of jollof rice, fried plantains, or Nigerian salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Nigerian Suya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 5g per serving

Fats

Fats: 12g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Nigerian Suya is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Allergens: Contains peanuts (kulikuli)

Summary

Nigerian Suya is a high-protein dish with a moderate amount of fats and carbohydrates. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for meat lovers.

Summary

Nigerian Suya is a delicious and spicy grilled meat skewer that is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this traditional Nigerian dish in the comfort of your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Nigerian Suya. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Nigeria. My grandmother, who was known far and wide for her culinary skills, had invited a group of travelers passing through our village to share a meal with us.

These travelers were from a different region of Nigeria, and they brought with them a dish called Suya. As soon as I took my first bite, I was hooked. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before – spicy, savory, and just a little bit sweet. I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make it, and she agreed.

Over the next few days, I watched intently as my grandmother prepared the Suya. She marinated thin slices of beef in a mixture of ground peanuts, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices that she kept secret. The meat was then skewered and grilled over an open flame until it was charred and tender. My mouth watered as I watched her work, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

When the Suya was finally ready, my family and I sat down to eat. The flavors were even better than I remembered, and I savored every bite. From that moment on, Nigerian Suya became a staple in our household.

As I grew older, I began experimenting with the recipe, adding my own twist to it. I discovered that a touch of paprika gave the Suya a smoky depth of flavor, while a squeeze of lemon juice brightened it up. I also started using different cuts of meat, such as chicken and lamb, to keep things interesting.

One day, a friend of mine from a neighboring village came to visit. She had heard about my Suya recipe and begged me to teach her how to make it. I gladly agreed, and we spent the entire day in the kitchen, chopping, marinating, and grilling until the Suya was perfect.

After our meal, my friend told me that she had never tasted anything like it before. She asked me where I had learned to make such a delicious dish, and I told her about the travelers who had introduced me to Suya all those years ago. She was amazed by the story and insisted that I pass the recipe down to future generations.

And so, I made it my mission to teach my children and grandchildren how to make Nigerian Suya. I shared the recipe with them, along with the story of how it came to be a part of our family tradition. They were eager to learn, and soon, they were making Suya just as well as I could.

Now, whenever we gather for a meal, Nigerian Suya is always on the menu. The flavors bring back memories of my childhood, of my grandmother's kitchen, and of the travelers who first introduced me to this delicious dish. I am grateful for the recipe and the stories that come with it, and I hope that one day, my grandchildren will continue the tradition and pass it down to their own children. Nigerian Suya will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will forever be grateful for the travelers who shared it with me all those years ago.