There’s a popular Nigerian saying that Okpa and Coke have been saving lives since 1900. But why stick to the usual, old combo when you can spice things up? Be adventurous and try these exciting Nigerian street food combinations.
Nigerian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diverse options, offering a wide range of healthy and delicious street food choices. From the protein-packed suya (grilled meat) to the fiber-rich akara (bean cake), Nigerian street foods are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Despite the variety of options available, many Nigerians tend to stick to traditional pairings like akara and pap or fried yam and sauce, often because of their upbringing and cultural influences.
I got tired of trying the same old combinations and wondered if there were better ways to enjoy local Nigerian dishes. While scrolling through X (formerly Twitter), I discovered that many others share my curiosity. Inspired by these conversations, I decided to explore and curate some unique food pairings that showcase the diversity of Nigerian cuisine. In this article, I will share 7 Nigerian street food combinations you should try, along with their health benefits.
Nigerian street food combinations you should try!
Give the usual combo a rest and try these unique Nigerian food pairings:
1. Kilishi and soaked garri
While some foodies might already know the sweetness of pairing kilishi with soaked garri, it’s not a very common combination. Kilishi, a popular Nigerian street food mostly sold in the North, is a spicy dried meat snack. The spicy flavor of kilishi complements the slightly sour taste of soaked garri, creating a unique and flavorful combination. I enjoyed one of the best kilishi at Area 1 in Abuja a few years ago. If you’re not in the North, you can find online vendors on Instagram that sell and deliver kilishi across Nigeria.
2. Akara and oatmeal
Akara and oatmeal is another Nigerian street food combination worth trying, especially if you’re tired of pairing akara with pap or custard. Bean cake, popularly known as akara, is a common Nigerian breakfast dish made from mashed beans that are fried into crispy, golden brown cakes. You will find akara vendors on almost every street in major Nigerian cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. The akara and oatmeal duo is not only healthy but also delicious. Akara is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, while oats are rich in antioxidants and essential minerals.
3. Bole and groundnut
The next time you go to buy bole and fish, consider stopping by the next shop and grab some groundnuts. Bole, or Boli as it is known by the Yorubas, is a roasted plantain delicacy. It is very popular in Nigeria’s South-South region, especially in Port Harcourt, and is often paired with roasted spicy fish. No disrespect to the bole and fish combo, but adding groundnuts to the mix takes it to a whole new level. Adding groundnuts also gives you an extra boost of protein and a satisfying crunch. Elekahia market in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, is infamous for selling the best bole in Nigeria.
4. Okpa and tiger nut drink
Okpa and tiger nut drink is another Nigerian street food combination you should try. If you have visited or lived in eastern Nigeria, especially Enugu State, you will agree that okpa is a legendary Nigerian food. Okpa is a traditional delicacy made from Bambara groundnuts, which are steamed into a dense, moist cake. It is perfect as a quick Nigerian snack.
The Hausas call it “Gurjiya,” while the Yorubas call it “Epa-Roro.” Pairing okpa with pap is a good mix, but try it with a chilled tiger nut drink. This combination is not only delicious but also a healthier option. Okpa is rich in protein, and tiger nut drink is a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health. While okpa is sold in all the Southeast states, Ogbete Market and Nsukka in Enugu State are known for selling the best street okpa.
5. Ewa agoyin and boiled eggs
I know you like ewa agoyin with fried plantains and agege bread, but have you tried it with boiled eggs? This Yoruba street food is made with mashed, softly cooked beans and spicy pepper sauce. Don’t be worried that you will fart too much from eating beans and eggs, focus on the satisfaction you will get from this delicacy. Adding eggs to your ewa agoyin will boost the protein and make it even more filling.
6. Abacha and beans
There’s a saying that beans can be paired with almost any Nigerian dish, and I totally agree. Abacha (African salad), a traditional Igbo food made from dried shredded cassava, pairs surprisingly well with beans. The creamy texture of beans complements the Abacha flavor, creating a satisfying and filling meal. This combo boosts your protein and fiber intake. Anambra and Enugu States arguably have the best Abacha spots in Nigeria.
7. Suya and fried yam
I tried the suya and fried yam combination during my university days, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Suya is a flavorful Nigerian street snack made from grilled meat. If you’re tired of eating plain suya, you should try it with fried yam. Trust me, the suya spice is enough to elevate your yam, but if you want some extra flavor, you can add pepper sauce. Yam is rich in carbohydrates, and the protein in suya perfectly complements it.
Tips for enjoying Nigerian street food
To fully enjoy Nigerian street foods and snacks, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:
1. Consider healthy combinations
Instead of pairing your food with junk snacks, opt for healthier options like some of the ones listed in this article.
2. Choose safe street food
Poorly prepared food can lead to food poisoning, so buy food from vendors who handle food properly and sell fresh meals. Observe the setting and only patronize food vendors who maintain a clean environment to minimize the risk of contamination.
3. Eat in moderation
Enjoy Nigerian street food in moderation to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.
4. Consider your allergies
If you have any allergies, avoid street food that contains ingredients that may trigger adverse reactions.
While exploring Nigerian street foods is fun, homemade meals are generally considered healthier options. With the right recipes, you can recreate these popular dishes at home to minimize risks associated with food allergies and unhealthy ingredients. For inspiration, check out recipes shared by chefs on Instagram or YouTube.
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Let us know in the comments section which of these Nigerian street food combinations you have tried and the ones you would like to try.
