Top 15 Must-Try Nigerian Foods That Define The Nation’s Cuisine

Nigerians have a variety of snacks and foods you can try out. Food is a vital need in the human body, so, it is not a surprise that Nigerians love food, and they have lots of varieties of foods. Sometimes, there can be so many varieties that you don’t know which one to choose. 

The fact that there are many varieties of foods in Nigeria doesn’t mean that there aren’t ones frequently eaten in Nigeria and that have come to represent Nigeria’s cuisine. These meals and snacks range from the most common in the southern part of the country to that of the north. They have come to define the diet and feeding habits of the country. 

Therefore, among all the meals and snacks in Nigeria, there are the best or top ones that resonate or connect to Nigerians more than others. These foods are the ones you would love to try out. 

Here are 15 must-try Nigerian foods that define the nation’s cuisine ;

1. Jollof Rice

Jollof rice is the most popular and important meal in Nigeria. Believed to have originated from somewhere in West Africa,  jollof rice is prepared and eaten by all the regions in the country and is frequently prepared. Jollof rice is a popular party and celebration meal in Nigeria. 

2. Rice and Stew

Rice and stew is another popular meal that has come to define Nigeria’s cuisine. It is eaten by Nigerians on festive occasions, Sundays, and other special days. It is considered a special food for special occasions. 

3. Porridge Beans and Yam

This meal is also prepared by all the regions in the country. It is a common meal in Nigeria’s boarding schools and universities as it contains good nutrients, and easily satisfies a person. It is also a good source of protein compared to other meals. 

4. Spaghetti

Spaghetti is a meal that can be prepared fast at any point. Spaghetti goes well with stew, and it can also be cooked as Jollof spaghetti. From the north to the southern part of the country, spaghetti is a highly sought meal that is easy to make. 

5. Egusi Soup and Swallow

Egusi soup is the most popular soup in Nigeria eaten with swallows of all types. Across all the regions of Nigeria, egusi soup is liked and often cooked. The condiments and process of cooking the soup are quite easy as well. 

6.  Akara

Akara is a snack that can serve as a meal, too. Akara is made from ground beans dough fried in a hot oil. From the ancient times, akara is a popular meal and snack in the country. It usually serves as morning or evening meals for a lot of Nigerian homes. 

7. Fries (Yam, Potatoes, and Plantains)

For consumption, fried yams, potatoes, and plantains can be prepared at home or bought from vendors. They are quick to make or buy. They usually serve as on-the-go meals or snacks across the country. 

8. Moi Moi

Moi moi is made from ground beans dough as well just like akara. It’s a very popular snack or meal in Nigeria. Moi moi can be prepared at home or bought from vendors. 

9. Ogbono Soup and Swallow

Ogbono soup is the second most popular soup in Nigeria, and it can be eaten with a wide variety of swallows like garri, pounded yam, tuwo, corn flour, fufu, and so on. It is affordable in terms of cheap prices of its condiments. A well-cooked ogbono soup has a nice taste. 

10. Roasted Plantains (Bole) and Fish

Originating in the Niger Delta area of the country, roasted plantain and fish are fast gaining traction across the country. Roasted plantain and fish is a very nutritious meal. It can be prepared at home, and it can be bought outside as well. The meal defines Nigeria’s rich coastline and the culture of the Niger Delta, particularly Port Harcourt City in Rivers State.

11. Suya

Suya is a very popular snack or meal which is often prepared by Northerners. It’s Nigeria’s version of barbequed beef. Suya is a rich meal of roasted beef with condiments of onions, cabbage, seasonings, and pepper. It is popular as a special treat. 

12. Kilishi

Kilishi is peppered and seasoned dried beef also mostly prepared by Northerners and sold all over Nigeria. It’s a special type of dried meat that’s known for its fantastic taste and flavour. Just like suya, kilishi is more of a treat than a regular meal; however, it has gained good popularity in Nigeria. 

13.  Tuwo Shinkafa and Kuka Soup

Kuka soup and tuwo shinkafa are very popular meals in the Northern part of Nigeria. They are widely prepared, especially during special occasions. This meal is also prepared by some Nigerians in the Southern part. 

14. Vegetable Soup and Swallow

Vegetable soup has increasingly grown popular among Nigerians gently. Originating in the Southern part of the country, it has spread out to other parts. Each region has its process of preparing this vegetable soup, and it goes well with any swallow. Vegetable soup is nutritious and sweet. 

15. Amala and Ewedu

This meal originates from the south-west region of Nigeria. Although it originates from the south-west, it is steadily encroaching into other parts of the country. When it is prepared well, this meal is great and can be enjoyed by anyone. 

Conclusion

These are the Nigerian meals you can try as they are popular and have come to define Nigeria’s cuisine. From the north to the south, these meals can be found everywhere and they can easily be prepared. They are so popular they have become part of Nigeria’s food culture.