Nigeria, known for its rich cultural diversity, boasts a vibrant street food scene that reflects the country’s culinary heritage. From savoury snacks to satisfying meals, the affordable street food options in Nigeria are not only delicious but also a delightful way to immerse yourself in local flavours. In this article, I’ll share some must-try street food offerings that won’t break the bank.
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Suya
One of Nigeria’s most beloved street foods, suya is a mouthwatering grilled meat skewer. Typically made with thinly sliced beef or chicken, suya is marinated in a flavourful blend of spices, including groundnut powder, pepper, and onions. Grilled to perfection, it’s often served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and spicy pepper sauce.
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Puff-Puff
Puff-puff is a delightful deep-fried dough ball, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Sweet and satisfying, puff-puff is a popular street snack enjoyed by many Nigerians. You’ll often find vendors selling these golden-brown delights on street corners and markets.
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Akara
A nutritious and affordable option, akara is a deep-fried fritter made from beans, onions, and spices. These savoury delights are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack item, served with a side of pap (a local porridge) or bread.
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Boli
Boli is a delicious street food that takes grilled plantains to the next level. The ripe plantains are roasted over an open flame until they develop a delightful smoky flavour. Often served with groundnut or spicy pepper sauce, boli is a sweet and savoury treat loved by locals.
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Moi Moi
Moi moi is a steamed bean pudding made from ground peeled beans, onions, and spices. It’s a nutritious and protein-rich street food often enjoyed as a side dish or on its own. Moi moi comes in various forms, including wrapped in leaves or served in convenient takeaway packs.
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Kilishi
Kilishi is a flavourful and spicy Nigerian beef jerky that makes for a tasty street snack. Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a blend of spices, including chilli pepper, garlic, and ginger, before being sun-dried or oven-dried to perfection. It is a dried version of suya. Kilishi offers a delightful combination of smokiness and heat, making it a favourite among those seeking a savoury and portable treat on the streets of Nigeria.
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Roasted Corn
Roasted corn is a simple yet tasty street food. The corn is grilled over an open flame, giving it a smoky flavour. It’s often enjoyed with coconut or pear, adding a unique twist to this traditional snack.
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Abacha (African Salad)
Abacha, also known as African Salad, is a delicious and hearty street food made from dried shredded cassava, ugba (ukpaka), oil, and various spices. Topped with vegetables, fish, or meat, abacha is a flavourful and filling dish popular in the southeastern part of Nigeria.
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Shawarma
Influenced by international flavours, shawarma has become a popular street food in Nigeria. Typically made with grilled and seasoned meat, vegetables, and garlic sauce, shawarma is often wrapped in flatbread and served as a delicious and affordable meal option.
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Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce
Ofada rice, a local variety, is often served with Ayamase sauce, a spicy pepper sauce made with assorted meats and green bell peppers. This flavourful combination is a favourite among Nigerians and can be found at street food stalls across the country.
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Final Thoughts
Exploring the diverse and affordable street food scene in Nigeria is a culinary adventure that offers a taste of the country’s rich flavours and traditions. From the spicy delights of suya to the sweet satisfaction of puff-puff, these street foods capture the essence of Nigerian cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the world of affordable street food in Nigeria is a delicious journey that shouldn’t be missed.
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This article was first published on 19th February 2024
chidiogo-akaelu
Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.
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