How to Make the Perfect Nigerian Suya
Nigerian · Medium · 40 min · 4 servings
Suya is a popular Nigerian street food made from thin slices of beef marinated in a smoky and spiced groundnut paste then grilled over open flame. It is typically served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of extra spice mix.
Why this recipe works
This Nigerian Suya recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 34g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 600 grams beef sirloin thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons ground roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Suya Spice Mix
Combine the ground roasted peanuts, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl to create the yaji spice rub. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Brush the thinly sliced beef pieces with vegetable oil, then coat each piece generously with the suya spice mix. Thread onto skewers and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Suya
Grill the skewers over high heat or on a charcoal grill for 8 to 10 minutes per side, turning once, until charred at the edges and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve with Garnish
Remove from the grill and dust with additional suya spice. Serve immediately with thinly sliced raw onions and tomatoes on the side.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- beef sirloin → chicken thighs for a leaner and juicier skewer
- ground roasted peanuts → peanut flour for a finer and more even coating
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Slicing the beef too thick which prevents proper marination and even cooking
- Not allowing enough marination time which results in a bland flavor
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 34g protein, 8g carbs, 22g fat, 2g fiber.
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