How to Make Nigerian Suya Spice – Step-by-Step Guide

A Nigerian meal featuring suya-spiced grilled meat, jollof rice, vegetable stews, and fresh garnishes in bowls

Nigerian Suya Spice is a smoky, spicy, and nutty seasoning blend that elevates grilled meats, fish, and even vegetables to a whole new level of flavor.

A traditional mix of ground peanuts, chili, ginger, and aromatic spices originates from the Hausa people of Nigeria and is a staple in West African cuisine.

Pair it with skewered beef, chicken, or tofu for a truly authentic experience.

A bowl of freshly made suya spice garnished with herbs, surrounded by garlic and dried chilies

Nigerian Suya Spice

Nigerian Suya Spice is a smoky, spicy, and nutty seasoning blend that elevates grilled meats, fish, and even vegetables to a whole new level of flavor.
A traditional mix of ground peanuts, chili, ginger, and aromatic spices, this blend originates from the Hausa people of Nigeria and is a staple in West African cuisine.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Course Condiment
Cuisine Nigerian, West African
Servings 1 cup
Calories 30 kcal

Equipment

  • Blender, food processor, or spice grinder
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Airtight container for storage

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cupย  roasted peanuts unsalted and skinless
  • 2 tbsp paprikaย  or ground chili for a spicier mix
  • 1 tbsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp ginger powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp ground white pepper
  • 1 tsp bouillon powder or cube optional for added umami
  • ยฝ tsp teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Peanuts:
    If using whole peanuts, ensure they are roasted and skinless. Spread them out on a tray and inspect for any bad nuts or debris.
    Grind the Peanuts:
    Add the roasted peanuts to a blender, food processor, or spice grinder. Pulse gently until finely ground, being careful not to over-process into peanut butter.
    Close-up of roasted peanuts scattered on a baking tray, ready to be ground for spice preparation
  • Mix the Spices:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the ground peanuts with paprika, cayenne pepper, ginger powder, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, bouillon powder, and salt.
    Blend for Uniformity:
    Return the mixture to the grinder or blender for a few quick pulses to ensure all ingredients are well-incorporated.
    A glass bowl containing a mixture of ground peanuts, salt, and reddish-brown suya spice blend on a white marble surface
  • Store the Suya Spice:
    Transfer the spice mix to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
    A plastic container filled with vibrant orange suya spice mix placed on a wooden surface

Video

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon):
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 2.5g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
Cooking Tips:
  • For an authentic Suya experience, rub the spice mix generously on skewered meat or fish and grill until cooked through.
  • To deepen the flavor, let the seasoned meat marinate for 1โ€“2 hours before cooking.
  • Use this spice mix as a dry rub, or combine it with a bit of oil to make a paste for spreading.
Keyword Homemade, Spicy Dishes, West African Cuisine

Are there any Alternative Ingredients I can Use?

If you canโ€™t find some of the ingredients for Nigerian Suya Spice or need to make substitutions, donโ€™t worry! This recipe is quite adaptable. For example, if roasted, skinless peanuts arenโ€™t available, you can use roasted cashews or almonds as a substitute.

While they wonโ€™t have the exact nutty flavor of peanuts, they provide a similar texture and richness to the spice mix. Alternatively, sunflower seeds can be used for a nut-free version, making it suitable for those with peanut allergies.

For the spices, cayenne pepper can be replaced with red chili flakes or a milder chili powder if you prefer less heat. Paprika is often used for its smoky flavor, but you can swap it with smoked paprika or even a touch of chipotle powder for a different smoky profile. If white pepper is hard to find, black pepper works just as well in a pinch.

Bouillon powder adds umami depth to the spice blend, but if you prefer to keep it all-natural or vegetarian, consider using a mix of nutritional yeast and a pinch of salt.

By experimenting with these alternatives, you can create a version of Suya Spice that suits your pantry and personal taste!

Close-up of a vibrant Nigerian suya spice mix with onions and herbs in a black bowl
Suya spice, also known as yaji, often includes peanuts, chili powder, ginger, and garlic, offering a unique blend of nutty heat and savory depth

The Bottom Line

Nigerian Suya Spice is a versatile and flavorful seasoning that can transform any dish into a rich and aromatic delight.

With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, Suya Spice is perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

Try this recipe today and discover the magic of Suya Spice in your cooking. Donโ€™t forget to experiment with the suggested alternative ingredients and let your creativity shine.

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