Suya is a flavorful West African dish made from grilled beef skewers coated in a spicy peanut-based rub. This Spicy Suya Recipe delivers perfectly grilled beef with bold flavors and fresh garnishes, making it the ultimate street food snack or meal.
Perfectly Grilled West African Street Food
Suya is a beloved street food from West Africa, especially popular in Nigeria. This Spicy Suya Recipe brings the bold flavors of grilled beef coated in a peanut-based spice rub to your home. The beef is marinated in a mixture of ground peanuts and spices like cayenne, paprika, and garlic powder, then grilled to smoky perfection. The result is juicy, tender beef skewers that pack a punch of flavor in every bite. Garnished with fresh onions, tomatoes, and lime wedges, suya is a perfect dish for gatherings, BBQs, or a quick snack bursting with authentic West African flavors.
Why is it Called “Suya”?
Suya refers to a popular West African dish, particularly in Nigeria, made from thinly sliced beef or chicken marinated in a peanut-based spice rub and grilled on skewers. The name “Suya” comes from the Hausa language, spoken in Northern Nigeria, where the dish is believed to have originated. It has since become a street food staple throughout Nigeria and other parts of West Africa. The unique combination of spices and ground peanuts gives suya its distinctive, flavorful taste, making it a favorite at street vendors and family gatherings alike.
How Should Suya Taste?
A perfectly made Suya should have a balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. The grilled beef should be tender and juicy, with a slightly charred exterior that adds depth to the flavor. The peanut-based rub gives the suya a rich, nutty taste, while the cayenne and paprika add heat. The fresh garnishes of onions, tomatoes, and lime provide a refreshing contrast to the spice, making each bite a delightful combination of bold flavors and textures. Suya is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of extra spice rub on top for an extra kick of flavor.
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It’s About How to Make It Super Yummy or Perfect
To make the Spicy Suya Recipe perfectly, follow these essential tips:
- Use Thinly Sliced Beef: For the most tender suya, slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. This ensures the beef cooks quickly and absorbs the spices fully.
- Get the Spice Mix Right: The key to authentic suya is the peanut-based spice rub. Make sure the peanuts are finely ground for an even coating, and adjust the cayenne to your preferred heat level.
- Marinate for Flavor: Let the beef marinate in the spice mix for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate for 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhance the taste.
- Grill on High Heat: Suya should be grilled over medium-high heat to get a good char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Brush with oil to prevent drying out.
- Serve with Fresh Garnishes: The fresh onions, tomatoes, and lime wedges are essential to balance the heat and richness of the suya. Don’t skip these garnishes—they complete the dish!
Suya Recipe
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Mixing bowls
- Basting brush
Ingredients
For the Suya Spice Mix:
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
For the Beef:
- 1 1/2 pounds Beef sirloin or flank steak (cut into thin strips)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
For Garnish:
- Sliced onions
- Fresh tomatoes
- Fresh cucumbers
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Suya Spice MixIn a bowl, combine the ground peanuts, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, salt, and white pepper. Mix well to create the suya spice rub.2. Marinate the BeefIn a large mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced beef strips. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with half of the suya spice mix. Toss to coat the beef evenly.Cover the beef and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.3. Thread the Beef onto SkewersSoak wooden skewers in water for 10-15 minutes if using wooden skewers to prevent burning. Thread the marinated beef strips onto the skewers.4. Grill the SuyaPreheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the beef skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with vegetable oil occasionally to prevent drying out.Cook until the beef is slightly charred and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.5. Garnish and ServeRemove the suya skewers from the grill and sprinkle with the remaining suya spice mix for extra flavor.Serve the grilled suya hot, garnished with sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lime wedges for an authentic experience.
Notes
- Peanut Substitution: If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute roasted cashews or sunflower seeds for the peanuts in the suya spice mix.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness. For a milder suya, reduce the amount of cayenne, or omit it altogether.
- Skewer Alternatives: If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the beef strips directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian suya, substitute the beef with tofu or vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers, and use the same suya spice mix.
- Serving Ideas: Suya pairs perfectly with jollof rice, fried plantains, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Spicy Suya Recipe brings the bold, smoky flavors of West African street food to your kitchen. With tender, marinated beef skewers grilled to perfection and coated in a peanut-based spice rub, suya offers an irresistible combination of savory, spicy, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, a casual gathering, or simply to enjoy as a snack, suya is sure to impress. Serve it with fresh onions, tomatoes, and lime wedges, and enjoy the authentic taste of Nigeria’s beloved street food.
