List of Nigerian Foods You Must Try

As you taste your way through Nigeria, you’ll find that the food not only fills your belly but also leaves you with lasting memories of your journey through this beautiful country.

For tourists visiting Nigeria, experiencing a culinary adventure is a must! Nigerian foods reflect the heart and soul of its people, combining rich flavours, spices, and traditions that date back centuries. 

So, buckle up as we guide you through a list of Nigerian foods you absolutely must try.

1. Jollof Rice: The National Pride

Let’s kick off with Jollof Rice, the crown jewel of Nigerian cuisine. This one-pot dish of rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices is a beloved staple across the country. 

Some might say it’s Nigeria’s gift to the world. Whether served at parties, restaurants, or home-cooked, it’s a dish that sparks joy. The beauty of Jollof is its versatility—pair it with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or a piece of beef, and you’re in for a treat!

The rich, spicy, and slightly smoky flavour of the rice is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s at the centre of the legendary Jollof Wars, a friendly rivalry between West African countries over who makes the best version. (Spoiler alert: Nigeria wins!)

2. Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup: The Dynamic Duo

If you’re looking for a meal that will have you craving for more, Pounded Yam paired with Egusi Soup is a top choice. 

Pounded Yam is made by boiling yam and pounding it until it becomes smooth and stretchy, resembling mashed potatoes but with a thicker, smoother texture.

Paired with Egusi soup—made from ground melon seeds, leafy vegetables, and a flavourful combination of meats or fish—this dish will have you hooked from the first bite.

The textures are exciting! The stretchy pounded yam complements the thick, rich soup, while the taste is a perfect harmony of nutty, savoury, and spicy.

3. Suya: Nigerian Street Food at Its Best 

For something a little more casual but just as iconic, try Suya, Nigeria’s popular street food. Suya is skewered meat, usually beef or chicken, seasoned with a fiery peanut spice blend called yaji and grilled over an open flame. 

It’s often served with fresh onions, tomatoes, and spicy pepper sauce.

The smoky, spicy flavour of the grilled meat combined with the crunch of raw veggies is an explosion of taste. It’s simple, affordable, and delicious—perfect for a quick snack on the go or an evening treat.

4. Pepper Soup: A Spicy Nigerian Staple 

If you’re a fan of spicy food, then Pepper Soup is a must-try. This light, watery soup is bursting with bold flavours from a mix of indigenous spices like ehuru, uziza, and uda. It’s typically made with fish, goat, or chicken and served piping hot.

The soup is spicy, but it has a comforting warmth that makes it perfect for any time of day. Many Nigerians even enjoy it as a hangover cure, thanks to its hearty broth and rich spices!

5. Moi Moi: The Perfect Side Dish

Moi Moi is a steamed pudding made from blended beans, peppers, and onions, often mixed with fish or boiled eggs. This dish is frequently served alongside rice dishes like Jollof or Fried Rice, but it can also stand alone as a delicious snack.

The smooth texture and savoury taste make Moi Moi a delightful addition to any meal. It’s also a healthier option if you’re looking for a high-protein, low-fat dish to enjoy while exploring Nigerian foods.

6. Fufu and Afang Soup: A South-South Specialty

A majestic mention in our list of Nigerian foods. When visiting Nigeria’s southern regions, you must try Fufu and Afang Soup. Fufu, a doughy staple, can be made from cassava, yam, or plantain, and it’s traditionally served with a variety of soups. 

Afang Soup, made from afang leaves (a type of wild spinach), waterleaf, and a mix of meats and seafood, is one of the tastiest options.

The flavour of Afang Soup is deep and earthy, while the Fufu adds a soft, subtle base. This combination showcases the best of southern Nigerian food, highlighting the region’s fondness for rich, hearty meals.

7. Akara: Crispy Bean Fritters

For breakfast or a light snack, grab some Akara, deep-fried bean cakes that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Made from ground black-eyed beans mixed with onions, peppers, and seasoning, Akara is simple yet incredibly flavourful.

Whether eaten plain or paired with bread (Akara sandwich), these golden-brown fritters offer a crispy, savoury bite that you’ll find hard to resist.

8. Efo Riro: A flavourful spinach stew

Efo Riro is a rich and hearty spinach stew, traditionally made with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and a choice of meats or fish. It’s packed with flavour and best served with rice, yam, or any swallow of your choice (like Pounded Yam or Fufu).

The combination of fresh spinach and rich, spicy stew creates a satisfying balance of flavours. This dish is both nutritious and delicious, making it a must-try Nigerian food for visitors.

Another Nigerian Delicacy: Ukwa Soup Recipe | Delicious African Breadfruit Dish

9. Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce: A Flavour Explosion

For a truly unique rice dish, try Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce. Ofada rice is a native Nigerian rice known for its slightly nutty flavour and chewy texture. 

It’s typically served with Ayamase—a spicy, green bell pepper sauce that’s loaded with meats, palm oil, and boiled eggs.

Ofada rice has a distinctive flavour that pairs perfectly with the complex and spicy Ayamase sauce. Together, they create a meal that’s bursting with heat, flavour, and texture.

10. Nkwobi: The Ultimate Meat Lover’s Dish

For the adventurous foodie, Nkwobi is a dish to savour. Made from well-seasoned cow leg cooked in a spicy palm oil sauce, this delicacy is popular among meat lovers.

The combination of tender meat and bold spices makes this dish stand out. It’s typically enjoyed with a cold beer, making it a favourite among those who enjoy a drink while they eat.

11. Gizdodo: A Sweet and Savoury Delight

Gizdodo is a delicious combination of gizzard and plantain stir-fried in a rich, peppery tomato sauce. This dish is a party favourite in Nigeria, and for good reason! The plantains bring sweetness, while the gizzards provide a savoury, chewy contrast.

You’d love this Nigerian Food because of the interplay of sweet and savoury flavours and the vibrant, colourful presentation, which makes Gizdodo a treat for your taste buds and your eyes.

12. Oha Soup: A traditional Igbo delicacy

From the southeastern part of Nigeria comes Oha Soup, a beloved dish among the Igbo people. This soup is made with oha leaves, thickened with cocoyam, and loaded with a variety of meats and fish.

The earthy, rich flavour of the Oha leaves, combined with the creamy texture of the cocoyam, creates a unique, delicious soup that’s deeply comforting and satisfying. Oha soup is best served hot and goes well with any swallow.

READ MORE: How to Make Oha Soup

Nigeria’s food scene is as diverse as its people, and there’s so much more to explore beyond this list. From the strong flavours of Palmnut Soup to the delicate sweetness of Puff-Puff (Nigeria’s version of doughnuts), every dish offers a new experience that tantalises your senses. 

So, if you’re planning a trip to Nigeria, make sure to come hungry.