20 must-try Nigerian delicacies you need to experience

• Discover the unique blend of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients that define the bold taste of Nigerian food
• From the north’s spiced dishes to the coastal seafood of the south
• TheRadar has compiled a list of 20 must-try Nigerian delicacies for locals and visitors

Nigeria has diverse cultures, and its cuisine is a beautiful reflection of its rich traditions. 

From spicy stews and soups to savoury snacks, Nigerian dishes are packed with vibrant flavours, distinct spices, and age-old recipes. 

So, whether you’re new to Nigerian cuisine or a seasoned food lover looking to explore more, this guide will introduce you to some must-try dishes that capture the essence of Nigeria’s diverse and delicious food culture.

20 Nigerian delicacies you shouldn’t miss 

1. Jollof rice: Arguably Nigeria's most famous dish, Jollof rice is a flavourful, one-pot dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. Each region has its variation, but it's typically served with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or fish. The perfect Jollof rice is slightly smoky, spicy, and deeply satisfying.

Photo credit: Chef John

2. Pounded yam and Egusi soup: Pounded yam is a starchy swallow made by pounding boiled yam until smooth and stretchy. It’s often served with Egusi soup, a thick soup made with melon seeds, spinach, and spices. The combination is hearty, filling, and a staple in many Nigerian households.

Photo credit: Trade Expo Africa 

3. Pepper soup: Pepper soup is a spicy, broth-based dish with various proteins like goat meat, chicken, or fish. It’s infused with a unique blend of local spices, giving it a fiery kick. It is often enjoyed as an appetiser.

Photo credit: Sisi Jemimah 

4. Suya: Suya is a popular street food made of thinly sliced meat (usually beef) seasoned with a spicy groundnut-based spice mix called yaji. The meat is skewered, grilled, and served hot, often with sliced onions, tomatoes, and cabbage.

Photo credit: Avrile Ngoga

5. Efo riro (Vegetable soup): Efo riro is a Yoruba dish made with spinach or other leafy greens cooked in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. It often includes assorted meats, dried fish, and sometimes crayfish, giving it a deep, savoury flavour.

Photo credit: Sisi Jemimah

6. Akara (Bean cakes): Akara are deep-fried fritters made from grounded beans, onions, and spices. Akara is a popular breakfast item. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and it is often enjoyed with pap, custard, or bread.

Photo credit: Pulse Nigeria

7. Moi Moi (Steamed bean pudding): Moi Moi is a steamed pudding made from blended beans, peppers, onions, and spices. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main meal. It is a protein-packed delight, often garnished with boiled eggs, fish, crayfish or corned beef. 

Photo credit: Sisi Jemimah 

8. Ofada rice and ayamase (Designer stew): Ofada rice is a local, unpolished rice variety with a unique aroma. It’s typically served with Ayamase, a spicy green pepper stew cooked with assorted meats. The distinct taste and smell of this dish make it unforgettable.

Photo credit: Kikifoodies

9. Nkwobi: Nkwobi is a delicacy made with cow foot, cooked until tender and smothered in a spicy, creamy palm oil-based sauce. It’s a favourite bar food in southeastern Nigeria and is best enjoyed with a chilled drink.

Photo credit: Dooney's Kitchen 

10. Banga soup: Banga soup is a rich, palm nut-based soup originating from the Niger Delta region. It’s made with fresh palm nuts, assorted meats, seafood, and traditional spices. The nutty taste makes it comforting, especially when paired with starches like fufu.

Photo credit: My Active Kitchen 

11. Fufu and Ogbono soup: Fufu is a starchy food made from cassava. It’s smooth and elastic, perfect for scooping thick, viscous Ogbono soup. Ogbono soup is made from ground African mango seeds, giving it a slightly slimy texture and a unique taste.

Photo credit: Pinterest 

12. Afang Soup: Afang soup is a popular dish from southeastern Nigeria's Efik and Ibibio people. It’s made with Afang leaves (wild spinach), waterleaf, and various meats and fish. The soup is thick, hearty, and packed with leafy greens.

Photo credit: Daniel Ochuko

13. Tuwo Shinkafa and Miyan Kuka: Tuwo Shinkafa is a rice-based swallow famous in northern Nigeria, often served with Miyan Kuka, a soup made from powdered baobab leaves. The soup is thick, green, and slightly tangy, making it a unique culinary experience.

Photo credit: Wikipedia 

14. Okpa: Okpa is a nutritious and filling snack made from Bambara nut flour. It’s a speciality of the eastern part of Nigeria, especially in Enugu. Okpa has a distinct taste and is often enjoyed as a breakfast or quick snack.

Photo credit: Zikoko

15. Abacha (African Salad): Abacha, also known as African salad, is a traditional Igbo delicacy made from fermented cassava (tapioca). The shredded cassava is mixed with palm oil, garden eggs, onions, ugba (oil bean), and spices. It is usually served as a side dish or snack and garnished with fish, kpomo (cow skin), or smoked mackerel.

Photo credit: Zeelicious

16. Kilishi: Kilishi is a Nigerian version of beef jerky, originating from the northern region. Thin slices of beef are marinated in a spice blend that includes ground peanuts, ginger, and pepper, then sun-dried and roasted. It’s a tasty, high-protein snack that packs a spicy punch.

Photo credit: LinkedIn 

17. Boli (Roasted plantain): Boli is a street food favourite in Nigeria, particularly in the southwestern region. It features ripe plantains roasted over an open flame, giving them a caramelised, smoky flavour. Boli is typically served with groundnut or enjoyed alone. 

Photo credit: Cookpad

18. Ewa Agoyin: Ewa Agoyin is a Yoruba dish of soft, mashed beans served with a spicy pepper sauce. The beans are cooked until very smooth, almost to a porridge consistency, and the pepper sauce is made with dried chillies and onions, adding a distinct flavour.

Photo credit: Sisi Jemimah 

19. Amala and Gbegiri soup: Gbegiri is a traditional Yoruba soup made from peeled, cooked, and blended beans. The soup has a smooth, creamy texture and is often served alongside ewedu (jute leaves soup) and buka-style stew. This trio is commonly paired with amala, a starchy dish made from yam flour.

Photo credit: Shopbee

20. Ofe Nsala (White soup): Ofe Nsala, also known as white soup, is a traditional Igbo soup made without palm oil. It features catfish or chicken and is flavoured with uziza leaves, crayfish, and spices. The soup is creamy and slightly peppery, providing a comforting meal.

Photo credit: Kikifoodies 

Each dish tells a story of its region, culture, and people. Nigerian food offers something for every palate, whether you prefer spicy, savoury, or sweet. 

So, the next time you have the chance, dive into this list and treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary journey through Nigeria!

TheRadar Kitchen: How to prepare delicious catfish pepper soup at home

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier curated an easy step-by-step guide to preparing catfish pepper soup. 

Catfish pepper soup is a cherished delicacy across Nigeria, known for its rich flavours, inviting aroma, and unique ability to bring comfort and warmth. Preparing catfish pepper soup at home is surprisingly straightforward. With the right ingredients and patience, you can easily recreate and adjust this authentic Nigerian dish to your taste.