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Suya

 


How to make delicious Nigerian Suya at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (about 700g) of beef (sirloin or tenderloin works best) or chicken
  • 1/4 cup of groundnut (peanut) powder (unsweetened)
  • 1 tablespoon of ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of ground white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
  • 1 bouillon cube (optional, for added flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • 1 large onion, sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh tomatoes, sliced (for garnish)
  • Extra suya spice mix (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meat:

    • Cut the beef or chicken into thin, bite-sized strips, about 1/4-inch thick. This allows the meat to cook quickly and absorb the flavors.
  2. Make the Suya Spice Mix:

    • In a bowl, mix the groundnut powder, ground ginger, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground white pepper, and salt. If you're using a bouillon cube, crush it into the mix.
    • Taste the spice mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. It should be a balanced blend of heat and savory flavors.
  3. Marinate the Meat:

    • In a large bowl, add the meat strips and drizzle with vegetable oil. Toss to coat the meat evenly.
    • Add the suya spice mix to the meat, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with the spice mixture. You can reserve some of the spice mix to sprinkle on the suya later if you prefer.
    • Cover the bowl and let the meat marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator, or up to overnight for more intense flavor.
  4. Prepare the Skewers:

    • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
    • Thread the marinated meat strips onto the skewers, packing them closely together but not too tightly.
  5. Grill the Suya:

    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can also use an oven or stovetop grill if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
    • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The meat should be cooked through with a slightly charred exterior.
    • If you're using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Serve:

    • Once cooked, remove the suya from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
    • Garnish with sliced onions and fresh tomatoes. You can also sprinkle some extra suya spice mix on top for added flavor.
    • Serve the suya hot, with the garnishes on the side. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of flatbread or rice.

Enjoy your homemade Nigerian Suya, a spicy and savory treat that’s sure to be a hit!

I tried this once and it tasted like the ones you get on the street definitely trying it again. Please feel free to follow or comment and tell me how it was.

Thanks for reading.

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