Kuli Kuli Recipe (Nigerian Groundnut Snack): Ingredients & How to Make It

Kuli Kuli is one of Nigeria’s most beloved snacks – crunchy, golden, and packed with heritage. This peanut-based treat has roots in the famous groundnut pyramids of Northern Nigeria, a symbol of agricultural prosperity during the mid-20th century. Today, Kuli Kuli remains a staple across West Africa, enjoyed with garri, pap, or simply as a healthy snack on the go.

History of Groundnut Pyramids in Nigeria

In the pre-colonial period and up until the 1960s, Nigeria was one of the world’s largest exporters of groundnuts (peanuts). Farmers in Northern states stacked thousands of bags of groundnuts into towering groundnut pyramids, monumental structures that once dotted cities like Kano and Kaduna.

These pyramids symbolized prosperity, hard work, and Nigeria’s position in the global agricultural economy. Although their prominence waned as the economy diversified, the legacy of groundnut farming lives on through snacks like Kilishi, Donkwa, Suya spice (Yaji), and Kuli Kuli.

The Cultural Significance of Kuli Kuli

 

Kuli Kuli is a peanut snack especially popular among the Hausa and Nupe tribes of Northern Nigeria. It was originally developed as a portable, protein-rich food for farmers and nomadic herders. Beyond being a snack, Kuli Kuli represents resourcefulness, it is made from the paste leftover after extracting groundnut oil, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Today, you’ll find Kuli Kuli at markets, bus stops, and food stalls across Nigeria and West Africa. Vendors proudly display trays of golden snacks, their crunchy texture making them irresistible to students, travelers, and workers alike.

How to Make Kuli Kuli at Home (Step-by-Step Recipe)

Making Kuli Kuli at home is simple and rewarding. Follow this recipe to enjoy a taste of Nigeria’s culinary heritage.

Ingredients

• 2 cups raw peanuts (groundnuts)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

• Vegetable oil (or reserved groundnut oil) for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Groundnuts
Spread raw peanuts on a tray and roast in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or toast in a pan over medium heat until golden.

Step 2: Grind the Groundnuts
Allow peanuts to cool slightly, then grind into a smooth paste with a food processor or mortar and pestle.

Step 3: Extract the Oil
Place the peanut paste in a clean cloth and squeeze out the oil. Set the oil aside for frying.

Step 4: Season the Paste
Mix the paste with salt and cayenne pepper.

Step 5: Shape the Kuli Kuli
Form into balls, sticks, or discs. Make sure they are firm.

Step 6: Fry the Kuli Kuli
Heat the reserved oil in a deep pan. Fry shaped Kuli Kuli until golden brown and crispy (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 7: Drain and Cool
Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and allow to cool.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy
Store in an airtight container. Eat alone as a snack or with garri, pap (ogi), or bread.

Pro Tip: Use freshly roasted peanuts for richer flavor.

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Serving Ideas: How Nigerians Enjoy Kuli Kuli

• With Garri (cassava flakes) – a popular pairing for a quick meal.

• With Pap (ogi) – soft corn pudding balanced with crunchy Kuli Kuli.

• As a topping – crushed Kuli Kuli sprinkled over salads or soups.

• Snack on the go – perfect for travellers, students, and workers.

Why Kuli Kuli Remains a Beloved Nigerian Snack

Preparing Kuli Kuli is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional Nigerian snack that is both crunchy and flavorful. Kuli Kuli remains a beloved snack that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many Nigerians. Its enduring appeal is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and the enduring traditions that bind communities together.

From the thronging crowd in Wuse Market, Abuja, to the bustling stalls of Eko Market, Lagos, the allure of Kuli Kuli transcends geography, bringing a taste of nostalgia to everyone who indulges in it. Vendors skillfully prepare and sell these golden, peanut-based snacks, their vibrant smiles reflecting the joy and pride in sharing a piece of their culture.

As the aroma of freshly fried Kuli Kuli wafts through the air, shoppers pause to savour the simple yet profound pleasure of this timeless treat because, in every bite of Kuli Kuli, there is a story of tradition, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of a people who cherish their heritage and celebrate it through their culinary delights.

 

Discover the rich flavors of Nigerian cuisine from sizzling street-food like suya and jollof rice to beloved snacks like puff-puff and chin-chin—on Rex Clarke Adventures. Dive into iconic dishes, culinary adventures, and cultural food stories across the nation.

 

FAQs About Kuli Kuli

What is Kuli Kuli made from in Nigeria?

Kuli Kuli is made from roasted groundnuts (peanuts) that are ground into a paste, seasoned, and deep-fried after the oil has been extracted.

How do you make Kuli Kuli crunchy?

The crunch comes from thoroughly squeezing out the oil from the groundnut paste before frying, and ensuring it is fried at medium heat until golden brown.

What is Kuli Kuli eaten with?

Nigerians commonly enjoy Kuli Kuli with garri (cassava flakes), pap (ogi), bread, or as a quick snack on the go.

Is Kuli Kuli healthy or fattening?

Kuli Kuli is rich in protein and healthy fats from peanuts, but since it is fried, it should be eaten in moderation.

Can you bake Kuli Kuli instead of frying?

Yes. While frying gives the authentic crunchy texture, you can bake Kuli Kuli in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until golden as a healthier alternative.

What tribe is Kuli Kuli most popular with?

Kuli Kuli is especially popular among the Hausa and Nupe tribes of Northern Nigeria, though it is now enjoyed nationwide and across West Africa.