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.
Read more about Travel/Tourism
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
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.
Got a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
You might also like:
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.
Comments (0)
