Suya Pepper: A Complete Guide

Suya pepper, also known as yaji spice, is a Nigerian seasoning made from a blend of ground peanuts, spices, and chili.

If you have ever tried Nigerian Suya (Spicy Grilled Meats), this seasoning is the essential ingredient.

What Ingredients are used for Suya Pepper

The common ingredients for suya pepper include:

• Ground peanuts or kulikuli powder: Adds nuttiness and texture.
• Cayenne pepper: Provides the characteristic heat.
• Smoked paprika: Enhances smoky flavor and adds color.
• Garlic powder: Boosts savory depth.
• Ginger powder: Adds warmth and a slight zing.
• Onion powder: Contributes sweetness and aroma.
• Salt: Balances flavors.
• Bouillon powder or cube (optional): Adds umami.

I would however like to state that these ingredients can sometimes vary depending on the person mixing this pepper.

How to Make Your Own Suya Pepper

Have you tried making your own Suya Pepper at home? If you’re like me, you probably have.

Making your own suya pepper at home is easy and allows you to adjust the heat and flavor to your taste. Let me walk you through the process

1. Prepare the Peanut Base: Roast peanuts until golden brown, then grind into a fine powder (or use kulikuli powder). Ensure there is minimal oil to prevent clumping.
2. Mix the Spices: Combine cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, ginger powder, onion powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Combine: Mix the peanut powder with the spices thoroughly. Adjust the proportions of cayenne and salt to your preference.
4. Store: Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months.

Pro Tip

To achieve authentic suya pepper flavor, lightly toast the spice mix before use to release the aromas.

Be careful not to burn the mix, as it can become bitter.

If leave outside Nigeria or you can’t find kulikuli powder, you can substitute with ground roasted peanuts. It won’t give you the authentic taste, but it would work.

Can You Eat Suya Spice by Itself?

While suya spice is safe to eat on its own, it is very intense, with a strong, concentrated flavor and heat.

Most people find it too overpowering to consume directly. It’s best used as a seasoning or to enhance the taste of meat, vegetables, or snacks.

Does Suya Spice Expire?

Yes, suya spice can lose its flavor and potency over time.

• Shelf Life: Typically, suya spice stays fresh for about 3–6 months if homemade and up to 1 year for store-bought blends.
• Signs It’s Expired: Faded aroma, dull color, and a less vibrant taste.

Tips to Extend Its Shelf Life/Storage

Store suya spice in an airtight container to prevent moisture and air exposure.

Keep it in a cool, dark place, away from heat or sunlight, like a pantry or spice cabinet.

For homemade suya spice, consider storing it in the refrigerator or freezer to preserve the freshness of the peanut content and spices.

Avoid using wet spoons when scooping to prevent clumping or mold.

Is Yaji Spice the Same as Suya Spice?

Yes, yaji spice is another name for suya spice. The terms are often used interchangeably in Nigerian cuisine.

While there may be minor regional variations, they generally refer to the same peanut-based, spicy seasoning.

Where Can You Buy Suya Spice?

If you leave outside Nigeria, you can buy suya spice at your local African Market. They usually sell them in bags. You can also purchase Suya Pepper from websites like Amazon and African food stores that have online presence.

Alternatively, you can avoid buying altogether and just follow my steps above for making your own homemade option.

What Other Meals Can Suya Spice Be Used For?

Apart from using Suya Spice for Suya. I sometimes use it when I make grilled fish, noodles, stews and shrimp skewers.

Substitutes for Suya Spice

If you’re out of suya spice, you can recreate a similar flavor by combining cayenne pepper with paprika and peanut powder or crushed peanuts.

What is Kulikuli and How Does It Relate to Suya Spice?

Kulikuli is a traditional Nigerian snack made from roasted, ground peanuts that are pressed to remove oil and then fried until crunchy.

In the preparation of suya spice, kulikuli powder is often used as the peanut base. This ingredient is critical for the authentic taste of suya pepper.

Have you tried Suya or Suya Pepper? Would you try making your own seasoning at home? Learn more about other spices and seasoning from our spices database.