If you’ve never experienced the rich, spicy, and soulful flavours of Nigerian food, you’re seriously missing out.
Nigeria is a beautiful place to visit, and there are many reasons to do so. One of them is the diverse culinary heritage of its people.
There are so many enjoyable foods to eat. Without wasting time, let’s jump into listing the best Nigerian dishes you should try from different parts of the country.
1. Jollof Rice
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Let’s start with the king of parties and Sunday lunch tables. Jollof Rice is a rich, tomato-based rice dish cooked with peppers, onions, spices, and sometimes vegetables. Depending on your preference, you can add proteins like chicken or goat meat.
Every West African country claims theirs is best, but let’s be honest, Nigerian Jollof reigns supreme.
2. Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup
This is a classic combination from the south-west and the Middle Belt. Pounded yam, made by pounding boiled yam into a stretchy, smooth dough-like texture, pairs perfectly with Egusi soup. Different people prepare their egusi differently, but it’s a thick, hearty soup made with melon seeds, spinach, and assorted meats.
It’s heavy, rich, and downright irresistible.
3. Afang Soup
A delicacy from the Efik and Ibibio tribes, Afang soup is a healthy blend of waterleaf and afang leaves, cooked with meats, fish, crayfish, and periwinkles.
Packed with flavour and nutrients, it pairs beautifully with eba, fufu, or pounded yam.
4. Moi Moi
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Moi Moi is a steamed bean pudding made from peeled beans, pepper, onions, and spices, sometimes with egg, fish, or corned beef inside.
It’s soft, spicy, and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with jollof rice or pap for breakfast.
5. Pepper Soup
This light, spicy, aromatic soup, made with catfish, goat meat, or a variety of meats, is a Nigerian comfort food favourite.
Often enjoyed at bars, family gatherings, or as a hangover remedy, Pepper Soup is both medicinal and delicious.
6. Ofada Rice and Ayamase (Green Pepper Sauce)
This traditional local rice, with its unique aroma, is typically served with Ayamase – a spicy green pepper sauce packed with assorted meats and boiled eggs.
If you like your food bold and fiery, this one’s a must-try.
7. Efo Riro
A classic Yoruba vegetable soup made with spinach or green amaranth, blended pepper sauce, palm oil, meats, and sometimes smoked fish.
Efo Riro is rich, colourful, and loaded with flavour.
8. Akara (Bean Cakes)
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Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these deep-fried bean fritters are a popular breakfast snack.
Best enjoyed hot, served with pap or bread for a filling, protein-rich start to your day.
