Top Nigerian Famous Foods You Must Try at Least Once

Nigeria offers one of the most diverse and flavorful cuisines in Africa. From smoky jollof rice to spicy suya, each dish reflects the country’s rich cultural mix. Whether you’re exploring street snacks or traditional meals, Nigeria’s famous food brings bold taste and deep tradition to your plate. Let’s explore what makes Nigerian cuisine truly unforgettable.

Most Famous Nigerian Foods You Should Know

From spicy street snacks to traditional soups and stews, you’ll experience bold flavors and diverse ingredients. Below, we have highlighted must-try dishes that showcase the best food to try in Nigeria.

1. Joll of Rice 

Jollof rice is one of the top must-try foods in Nigeria, made with tomatoes, peppers, and spices. When served with grilled or fried chicken, it becomes a complete, flavorful meal loved across the country. It’s a symbol of celebration and authentic Nigerian taste.

Must Try	Try it with smoky party-style rice and spicy peppered chicken
Price Range	$3–$8 (₦2,000–₦6,000) (Approx. ₹249–₹664)

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2. Suya

A top street food in Nigeria, Suya is made from thinly sliced beef or chicken coated in yaji spice and grilled over open flames. It’s sold mostly in evening markets and is a spicy, smoky snack among the top dishes in Nigeria.

Must Try	Beef Suya with onions and yaji powder
Price Range	$1–$4 (₦700–₦3,000) (Approx. ₹83–₹332)

3. Egusi Soup with Meat

This thick soup is a favorite authentic food in Nigeria, made from ground melon seeds, beef, and leafy greens. Often enjoyed with fufu or pounded yam, it’s one of the must-try foods in Nigeria.

Must Try	Egusi with goat meat and eba
Price Range	$4–$9 (₦3,000–₦7,000 / ₹335–₹750)

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4. Pepper Soup 

One of the spiciest top dishes in Nigeria, this light soup uses fragrant local spices and is served hot with soft goat or chicken. Found in both homes and popular restaurants in Nigeria, it’s great on cold days.

Must Try	Goat pepper soup with yam slices
Price Range	$2–$5 (₦1,500–₦4,000 / ₹170–₹420)

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5. Nkwobi

Nkwobi is a bold, flavorful dish of cow foot in spicy palm oil sauce. It’s a must-try food in Nigeria, especially in Igbo cuisine. It’s common in bars and street food spots.

Must Try	Nkwobi with a chilled local drink
Price Range	$3–$6 (₦2,000–₦4,500 / ₹250–₹500)

6. Banga Soup

Made with palm fruit, catfish, or beef, Banga Soup is a rich, aromatic stew from southern Nigeria. It’s among the authentic foods in Nigeria and is commonly served in popular restaurants in Nigeria.

Must Try	Banga Soup with starch or fufu
Price Range	$3–$8 (₦2,500–₦6,000 / ₹250–₹670)

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7. Afang Soup with Beef

Afang Soup blends Afang leaves and waterleaf with beef and dried fish. This is a deeply rooted traditional food of Nigeria, especially in the Efik and Ibibio communities. It’s nutrient-rich and filling.

Must Try	Afang Soup with semovita or pounded yam
Price Range	$4–$7 (₦3,000–₦5,500 / ₹335–₹630)

8. Fried Rice with Shrimp or Chicken

Often served at parties, this colorful dish includes vegetables, liver, and shrimp or chicken. It’s one of the best foods to try in Nigeria for rice lovers, available in popular restaurants.

Must Try	Shrimp fried rice with peppered chicken
Price Range	$3–$6 (₦2,000–₦4,500) (₹249–₹499)

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9. Moi Moi (Bean Cake)

A steamed pudding made from blended beans, onions, and spices. Often wrapped in leaves or foil. It’s light, protein-rich, and commonly served as a side or main. One of the most authentic foods in Nigeria.

Must Try	Moi Moi with pap or Jollof Rice
Price Range	$1–$3 (₦800–₦2,500) (Approx. ₹83–₹249)

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10. Ofada Rice with Ayamase Sauce

This dish combines locally grown rice with a bold, spicy green sauce from peppers and offal. A must-try food in Nigeria, especially in southwestern states. The meat is often richly seasoned and slow-cooked.

Must Try	Ask for Ayamase with ponmo (cow skin) and liver
Price Range	$3–$7 (₦2,500–₦5,000) (Approx. ₹249–₹581)

11. Efo Riro

This Yoruba spinach stew is made without meat using bell peppers, onions, and palm oil. Rich in taste and nutrients, it’s one of the top dishes in Nigeria for vegetarians.

Must Try	Efo Riro with amala or white rice
Price Range	$2–$4 (₦1,500–₦3,500) (Approx. ₹166–₹385)

12. Joll of Rice (Veg Version)

The vegetarian take on Nigeria’s favorite rice dish is made with tomatoes, onions, and mixed vegetables. It’s among the best foods to try in Nigeria, perfect for both casual and festive meals.

Must Try	Veg Jollof with fried plantains
Price Range	$2–$5 (₦1,500–₦4,000) (Approx. ₹166–₹415)

13. Akara

Deep-fried balls of mashed beans and spices. Sold hot at roadside stalls, Akara is a beloved street food in Nigeria and a protein-rich breakfast or snack option.

Must Try	Akara with bread or pap
Price Range	$0.50–$2 (₦400–₦1,500) (Approx. ₹42–₹166)

14. Yam Porridge

A creamy dish of yam cooked in spicy tomato and pepper sauce. Sometimes includes vegetables for a richer texture. A filling, flavorful meal and one of the must-try foods in Nigeria.

Must Try	Asaro with plantain cubes
Price Range	$2–$4 (₦1,500–₦3,500) (Approx. ₹166–₹332)

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15. Okra Soup (Veg Version)

This slimy, tasty soup is made with okra, spices, and sometimes mushrooms instead of meat. A classic among the traditional foods of Nigeria, often eaten with swallows like fufu.

Must Try	Okra soup with amala or garri
Price Range	$2–$4 (₦1,500–₦3,500) (Approx. ₹166–₹332)

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16. Boiled or Fried Plantains

Ripe or semi-ripe plantains are either boiled or fried until tender or golden brown. A popular side or snack is often served with stews or beans. It’s among the top dishes in Nigeria and found in homes and street food in Nigeria stalls alike.

Must Try	Fried ripe plantains with spicy tomato stew or beans
Price Range	$1–$3 (₦800–₦2,500) (Approx. ₹83–₹207)

17. Puff-Puff

Puff Puff is one of the best foods to try in Nigeria. These golden, fried dough balls are lightly sugary, soft, and fluffy, making them a popular street snack. It’s perfect for casual occasions or with a refreshing drink.

Must try	Puff Puff is a must-try food in Nigeria, often served during celebrations or enjoyed as an afternoon snack
Price Range	$1–$5 (₦700–₦3,500) (Approx. ₹83–₹415)

18. Chin Chin

Chin Chin is a beloved traditional food of Nigeria, made from flour, sugar, and nutmeg, then fried to a crunchy golden-brown. It’s a classic Nigerian snack, perfect for munching on the go.

Must try	Known for its crisp texture, Chin Chin is a must-try food in Nigeria and a favorite snack during parties and gatherings.
Price Range	$2–$7 (₦1,500–₦5,000) (Approx. ₹166–₹581)

19. Coconut Candy

Coconut Candy is a delicious, authentic food in Nigeria, made by mixing grated coconut with sugar to form a chewy, sweet treat. It’s perfect for those who love tropical flavors.

Must try	Coconut Candy is popular in street food in Nigeria, often sold by vendors. It’s a must-try if you’re looking for a sweet, coconutty experience.
Price Range	$1–$3 (per piece) (Approx.. ₹83–₹249)

20. Kulikuli

Kulikuli is a flavorful, spiced peanut snack made from roasted groundnuts (peanuts) and seasoned with spices. It’s crunchy and often sold at roadside stalls.

Must try	If you love nuts and spice, Kulikuli is a must-try food in Nigeria that packs a punch in both flavor and texture.
Price Range	$2–$5 (Approx. ₹166–₹415)

21. Plantain Chips

Plantain Chips are thin slices of plantains, fried until crispy and often seasoned with sweet or spicy flavors. They’re a common street food in Nigeria and an excellent snack.

Must try	Plantain Chips are a must-try food in Nigeria, enjoyed as a crunchy snack or served alongside meals.
Price Range	$1–$4 (Approx.. ₹83–₹332)

22. Donkwa (Tanfiri)

Donkwa is a traditional food of Nigeria made from peanuts and cornmeal, sweetened and molded into small balls. It’s a popular, crunchy, and nutritious snack in Nigeria.

Must Try	Donkwa is a delightful, authentic food in Nigeria, especially loved by those who appreciate peanut-flavored treats
Price Range	$1–$3 (for a small bag) Approx. ₹83–₹249)

23. Fura da Nono

Fura da Nono is a refreshing Nigerian traditional drink made from millet balls served in fermented milk. It has a tangy, sweet, and sour blend that’s both nutritious and energizing.

Must try	Fura da Nono is an authentic must-try food in Nigeria, especially popular in Northern Nigeria, and known for its health benefits.
Price Range	$1–$2 (per serving) (Approx.. ₹83–₹166)

24. Zobo Drink with Pineapple

Zobo is a popular drink in Nigeria made from hibiscus flowers, often mixed with pineapple for a tangy, refreshing flavor. It’s widely sold at street stalls and is a favorite at celebrations.

Must Try	Zobo Drink with Pineapple is a must-try food in Nigeria, offering a blend of sweet and sour flavors that will leave you refreshed.
Price Range	$1–$4 (for a bottle or glass) (Approx. ₹83–₹332)

25. Boil

Boli is grilled ripe plantains, often served with groundnut or spicy pepper sauce. It’s a smoky, naturally sweet street snack, especially popular in southern Nigeria. This is a classic example of authentic food in Nigeria.

Must-Try	If you’re exploring street food in Nigeria, Boli is one of the best foods to try in Nigeria for a flavorful, plant-based bite.
Price Range	₦300–₦700 ($0.35–$0.85) (Approx. ₹29–₹70)

26. Gala and La Casera

Gala (a soft sausage roll) paired with La Casera (apple soda) is a roadside staple and Nigeria’s most iconic bus-stop combo. Found nationwide, it’s filling, affordable, and very Nigerian.

Must-Try	This combo defines on-the-go snacking and ranks among the top dishes in Nigeria, sold at every corner.
Price Range	₦500–₦800 ($0.60–$1.00) (Approx. ₹50–₹83)

27. Akara 

Akara are crispy, deep-fried fritters made from ground beans, onions, and spices. A popular breakfast snack, they’re usually eaten with pap or bread.

Must-Try	It’s a traditional food of Nigeria and a must-try food in Nigeria.
Price Range	₦100–₦300 ($0.10–$0.35) Approx.x. ₹8–₹29)

28. Ofada Rice with Stew 

This hearty dish includes unpolished local rice and fiery red stew made with assorted meat and palm oil. Often served in banana leaves, it’s packed with bold flavors. Among the best foods to try in Nigeria, Ofada rice is commonly served at food festivals and popular restaurants in Nigeria.

Must Try	Ofada rice served with spicy assorted meat stew and wrapped in banana leaves
Price Range	₦1,000–₦1,800 ($1.20–$2.20)Approx. ₹100–₹183)

29. Samosa

A crispy, triangular pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables, deep-fried to perfection. Though not native, it has become a favorite snack in urban areas. This flavorful snack is now a beloved part of street food in Nigeria and a must-try food in Nigeria for tourists.

Must Try	Samosa served with mint chutney or spicy pepper sauce
Price Range	₦100–₦300 ($0.10–$0.35) Approx.x. ₹8–₹29)

30. Shawarma

Nigerian shawarma is packed with grilled chicken or beef, fresh veggies, mayonnaise, and chili sauce. It’s wrapped in flatbread and grilled for a smoky finish. This fusion dish is one of the top dishes in Nigeria and is widely available at popular restaurants in Nigeria.

Must Try	Shawarma wrap filled with grilled chicken or beef, fresh veggies, mayo, and chili sauce
Price Range	₦1,500–₦2,500 ($1.80–$3.00) (Approx. ₹150–₹207)

31. Agege Bread with Akara

Soft, stretchy Agege bread pairs perfectly with crispy akara, offering a mix of textures and a satisfying bite. A common breakfast sold on Lagos streets. This combo is authentic food in Nigeria and ranks high on the list of must-try foods in Nigeria for vegetarians.

Must Try	Agege bread stuffed with freshly fried akara
Price Range	₦300–₦600 ($0.35–$0.75) Approxx. ₹29–₹62)

32. Peppered Fish

Peppered fish is seasoned, grilled fish topped with hot pepper sauce, usually served with cold drinks at night markets. The spice level is intense but addictive. It’s one of the top dishes in Nigeria that defines the traditional food of Nigeria, especially loved in Lagos and Port Harcourt.

Must Try	Peppered Fish: Spicy grilled fish topped with hot pepper sauce
Price Range	₦800–₦1,500 ($0.95–$1.80) (Approx. ₹79–₹150)

FAQs

What is Nigeria’s National Food?

Nigeria does not have an official national food, but Jollof Rice is widely considered a national favorite, commonly served at celebrations and gatherings.

Is Nigerian food Cheap?

Yes, Nigerian food can be affordable, especially local street foods and meals, depending on the region and ingredients.

What type of food is eaten in Nigeria?

Nigeria’s cuisine is diverse, including dishes like Jollof Rice, Suya, Pepper Soup, Pounded Yam with Egusi Soup, and Akara. Meals are often rich in spices, grains, and meat.

What is a typical breakfast in Nigeria?

A typical Nigerian breakfast includes Akara (bean fritters), Moi Moi (steamed bean pudding), or Agege bread served with tea or pap (fermented corn pudding).

Which are the famous restaurants in Nigeria?

Some famous Nigerian restaurants include Bungalow Restaurant (Lagos), Terra Kulture (Lagos), The Yellow Chilli (Lagos), and Bukka Restaurant (Abuja).

What is the traditional food of Nigeria?

Traditional Nigeria famous food includes Pounded Yam, Egusi Soup, Jollof Rice, Efo Riro, and Pepper Soup. Each region has its specialties.

What currency is used in Nigeria?

The currency used in Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (₦).