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Market Suya (Nigerian Skewers)

This vibrant Nigerian suya recipe brings the smoky, aromatic flavours of West African street food into your home kitchen. Traditionally seasoned with a spicy, nutty blend known as yaji, these skewers offer a fantastic variety of textures by using tender Wagyu rib eye, succulent prawns, and juicy chicken thighs. This high-protein dish is defined by its bold heat and the deep, savoury notes of roasted peanuts and ginger, making it a standout choice for an impressive dinner or a lively weekend barbecue.

To balance the fiery spice of the marinade, the skewers are served with a luxurious roasted tomato sauce. This smooth, creamy accompaniment provides a cooling contrast that elevates the dish from simple street food to an elegant main course. Whether you are hosting a summer garden party or looking for a nutritious, flavour-packed meal, this versatile recipe is sure to become a firm favourite for those who enjoy authentic, global flavours.

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Ingredients for Market Suya (Nigerian Skewers)

  • 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, ground into a fine powder

  • 1 tablespoon paprika

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

  • 1 tablespoon onion powder

  • 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 2 Maggi bouillon cubes, crushed

  • 450g jumbo prawns, peeled and deveined

  • 450g Wagyu rib eye beef, thinly sliced into strips

  • 450g boneless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces

  • 2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, stemmed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Kosher salt

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil

  • 1 medium white onion, thinly sliced

  • 240ml double cream

In a small bowl, combine all the spice blend ingredients until incorporated.

In three separate bowls, place the prawns, beef, and chicken. Divide the spice blend equally among the bowls and mix well to coat the meats. Cover each bowl in plastic wrap and transfer to the refrigerator to marinate for 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 204°C. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the tomatoes with the olive oil and salt. Transfer to the oven and roast for 15 minutes, then remove and let cool.

In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook until they have fully broken down, 10 minutes. Stir in the cream and bring to a light simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream has reduced and become thick. Transfer to a blender and purée until smooth. Season with salt and set aside.

Light a grill or place a grill pan over medium-high heat. Skewer the prawns, rib eye, and chicken on soaked 12-inch bamboo skewers. Grill, turning occasionally, until cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes for the prawns, 2 to 3 minutes for the rib eye, and 6 to 8 minutes for the chicken. Serve alongside the roasted tomato soubise.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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