By Nkem Ndem
There is no denying that a trip to Nigeria is not complete without a taste of suya. The long thin cut of beef, marinated in delicious spices and grilled over red-hot coals, has over the years become one of the favourite street foods consumed by locals in the country. You can hardly go three miles around major cities, including cities outside the Northern region where it is said to originate from, without catching a whiff of its tantalising aroma in the air. Actually, suya is one food in the country that is enjoyed by all and sundry irrespective of age, sex, ethnic group or tribe.
If you are visiting and wondering what the fuss is about this mouth-watering delicacy, Jovago.com, Africa’s No.1 online hotel booking portal reveals 7 reasons Nigerians are obsessed with Suya.
- It’s absolutely delicious
Unless your taste buds are numb, the taste of suya on your tongue is one you will remember for the rest of your life. A nibble fills your mouth with a burst of flavour and the luscious taste of meat. Also, the cayenne pepper and ginger adds some zing, making it eternally palatable.
- It comes in several varieties
Suya is far from boring. It comes in different varieties. It can be made with skewered beef, ram, goat meat or chicken. Vegetarians even have their veggie suya made with mushrooms.
- It can be combined with almost anything
Suya is one food you can combine with anything. From bread, to salad, rice and soaked garri, it can serve as the perfect combo. Nigerians have since found creative ways to make the most of this tasty delight. Some chefs now include Suya as an ingredient on other recipes.
- It’s affordable
No matter how fancy or grand the sales point, suya is always affordable, and it is no secret Nigerians love anything affordable. Along the street, you can get a stick for as low as N200, or ask a ‘mallam’ to cut a small portion worth about N100 for you. The sellers who prepare theirs indoors are more expensive, they are found at fancy store and malls. However, the highest you can purchase a stick of suya probably is N2,000. Suya basically gives you gastronomic fulfilment at an affordable price.
- It’s the perfect finger food for any occasion
From birthdays to weddings, private parties and cook-outs, there is literally no Nigerian event where suya cannot fit in on the menu. It is mostly served as finger food alongside small chops, samosa and spring rolls.
- You can buy it anywhere
Suya is one delicacy that is not hard to find in Nigeria. It is sold at almost every corner of major cities. The tastiest are found on the street as open air tends to add to its aroma and taste. Usually, you have so many spots to pick from and the locals are always willing to advise you on whose suya is the most palatable. Again, the ingredients for making it are easy to find as well, so those who are hygiene conscious can just make it for themselves at home.
- There is no such thing as bad suya
Suya never tastes bad. Even when it is not properly marinated or properly grilled, it still gives the consumer a measure of satisfaction. The aroma alone can make the stars shine brighter at night.
Nkem Ndem, Travel/Tech Writer, Jovago Nigeria
Skype: live:nkemndemv, Twitter: @ndemv, Instagram: @kem_dem
