If you’re visiting Nigeria or you’ve lived here your whole life, there’s one thing you cannot miss out on – street food. These meals are not only popular among locals but are also loved by tourists who want to experience the authentic flavours of Nigeria. The beauty of Nigerian street food lies in its bold flavours, simple ingredients, and the unique experience of buying from a roadside vendor. Whether you’re after a quick snack or a meal on the go, Nigerian street foods will satisfy your cravings.
Here are the top five Nigerian street foods you absolutely need to try before you die!
Top 5 Street Foods in Nigeria for 2024
- Suya – The Grilled Meat Masterpiece
- Akara – Golden, Crispy Bean Cakes
- Boli – Roasted Plantain Done Right
- Puff-Puff – Sweet, Fluffy Dough Balls
- Abacha – The Unique African Salad
1. Suya – The Grilled Meat Masterpiece
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons.
When you think of Nigerian street food, suya is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Suya is grilled, skewered beef, chicken, or goat meat, marinated in a spicy blend of groundnut powder and other local spices. It’s cooked over an open flame, giving it that unmistakable smoky flavour that’s impossible to resist. What makes suya special is the spice mix, known as yaji, which has just the right balance of heat and flavour. Suya is typically served with thinly sliced onions, tomatoes, and sometimes extra yaji for dipping.
Suya is a street food best enjoyed fresh off the grill, usually in the evening when street vendors set up shop. It transforms Nigeria’s evening delights.
- Where to find it: Suya spots are everywhere in Nigeria, from cities like Lagos and Abuja to even the most rural villages.
- Best time to eat: Evening or late at night.
2. Akara – Golden, Crispy Bean Cakes
Photo Source: The Guardian Nigeria News.
For a simple yet satisfying breakfast, akara is the way to go. These fried bean cakes are made from peeled black-eyed peas blended with onions, pepper, and spices. The mixture is deep-fried until it forms crispy, golden-brown balls or patties.
Akara is typically eaten with bread (often referred to as “akara burger” by locals) or paired with pap (a fermented corn pudding) for a complete breakfast. It’s protein-packed, filling, and, best of all, delicious!
You can find Akara sellers early in the morning, frying up fresh batches on street corners.
- Where to find it: Akara is a staple found across Nigeria but mostly in the southwestern part, especially in cities like Lagos and Ibadan.
- Best time to eat: Morning.
3. Boli – Roasted Plantain Done Right
Photo Source: X.com.
Plantain lovers, you’re in for a treat! Boli is roasted ripe plantain, typically served with spicy pepper sauce or groundnuts (peanuts). The plantains are roasted over a charcoal grill, giving them a slightly smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the plantain.
Boli is commonly sold on the roadside, especially in the southern parts of Nigeria. For a heartier meal, you can pair boli with grilled fish or suya. Boli is an all-time favourite whether you’re after a light snack or something more filling.
- Where to find it: Boli vendors are easy to spot in cities like Port Harcourt, Lagos, and Warri.
- Best time to eat: Afternoon or evening.
READ MORE: Why Bole and Groundnut is Nigeria’s Favourite Snack
4. Puff-Puff – Sweet, Fluffy Dough Balls
Photo Source: All Nigerian Foods.
No street food adventure in Nigeria is complete without indulging in puff-puff. These deep-fried dough balls are soft, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Made from a simple mix of flour, sugar, and yeast, puff-puff is a snack you can enjoy at any time of the day.
Puff-puff is often sold in small bags by street vendors, and you’ll find people munching on them as they go about their day. Some vendors add a touch of pepper to give the dough a spicy kick, while others serve it plain and sweet.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially during festive periods.
- Where to find it: Puff-puff is sold practically everywhere in Nigeria, but it’s especially common during street parties and festivals.
- Best time to eat: Anytime!
5. Abacha – The Unique African Salad
Photo Source: Food Ace/YouTube.
For something light and refreshing, try Abacha, also known as African salad. This dish hails from the southeastern part of Nigeria and is made from dried, shredded cassava that’s soaked to rehydrate and then mixed with palm oil, fresh vegetables, and seasonings.
Abacha is typically served with Ugba (fermented African oil beans), peppers, onions, and sometimes fish or meat. It’s more of a salad than a meal, but it’s full of rich flavours from palm oil and spices.
Abacha is often enjoyed as a snack or an appetiser, and it’s a must-try if you’re exploring Nigerian cuisine.
- Where to find it: Mostly found in southeastern cities like Enugu and Owerri.
- Best time to eat: Afternoon or evening.
Why You Should Experience Nigerian Street Food
Nigeria’s street food culture is not just about food; it’s about the experience. From the smoky aroma of suya on a cool evening to the satisfying crunch of akara on a busy morning, street food in Nigeria is an essential part of daily life.
Each dish tells a story of the region it comes from and the people who make it. So, the next time you’re in Nigeria, skip the fancy restaurants and head straight to the streets. You’ll find some of the best food you’ve ever tasted.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nigerian Street Foods
1. What are some of the most popular Nigerian street foods?
Nigeria has a wide variety of street foods. Still, some of the most popular ones include suya (spicy grilled meat skewers), akara (fried bean cakes), puff-puff (sweet dough balls), boli (roasted plantain), and abacha (African salad).
2. Is Nigerian street food spicy?
Yes, many Nigerian street foods are on the spicy side. Dishes like suya and abacha often pack a punch thanks to the local peppers and seasonings used. However, if you’re not a fan of too much heat, don’t worry—most vendors are happy to dial down the spice level if you ask.
3. Where can I find Nigerian street food?
You can find street food vendors all over Nigeria, particularly in busy cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano. Street food is usually sold in open markets, on street corners, or even by vendors weaving through traffic.
Mornings are great for finding breakfast items like akara, while evenings are prime time for treats like suya and boli.
4. Is Nigerian street food safe to eat?
In general, Nigerian street food is safe to eat, especially when you buy from vendors who prepare the food fresh and keep their environment clean.
A good rule of thumb is to choose vendors with a steady stream of customers, as it usually means their food is fresh and trustworthy. Just be sure to check out the cleanliness of the stall and practice basic hygiene, like washing your hands before eating.
5. Are there vegetarian options for Nigerian street food?
Yes, vegetarians have plenty of options when it comes to Nigerian street food. Akara (fried bean cakes) and boli (roasted plantain) are both great choices. You can also enjoy Abacha, which is typically plant-based but sometimes served with fish or meat—just ask the vendor to leave those out if you prefer a vegetarian meal.