Suya-Style Kebabs (West African Spicy Skewers)
Discover how to make authentic West African Suya-style kebabs at home - juicy grilled beef coated in a spicy peanut-based Yaji seasoning. A quick, smoky, and flavorful street food favorite perfect for grilling, oven-baking, or air frying.
Updated : 12 December, 2025
Easy
About 1 hour.
Ingredients
500 grams
Beef
2 tablespoon
Vegetable oil
1 teaspoon
Salt
0.5
Onion
1
Tomato
Homemade Suya Spice (Yaji)
3 tablespoon
Roasted and salted peanuts
1 tablespoon
Ground paprika
1 tablespoon
Cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon
Garlic powder
1 teaspoon
Onion powder
0.5 teaspoon
Ginger powder
0.5 teaspoon
Salt
Table
Table of volume measurements:
- teaspoon - 5 ml
- dessert spoon - 10 ml
- tablespoon - 20 ml
- glass - 200 ml
Preparation
Step 1
For homemade suya spice mix just add everything to a bowl and mix well. You night not need all of it for this recipe, bus this spice mix ir great for other dishes too.
Step 2
Slice beef or chicken very thinly, almost shaved. Mix meat with oil, salt, and 2 tbsp suya spice. Massage well so every piece is coated. Marinate for 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 3
Thread thin strips onto skewers. Optional: Add onion or bell pepper pieces.
Step 4
Grill: Cook over medium-high heat, 3-5 minutes per side.
Oven: Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
Air Fryer: 200°C for 10-12 minutes.
Brush lightly with oil and sprinkle more suya spice halfway through.
Step 5
Traditionally served with fresh onions, sliced tomatoes, chilled drinks.
For extra authenticity, sprinkle more Yaji before serving.
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