Top Nigerian Must-Try Appetizers

Food

December 13, 2024

Nigeria, a vibrant tapestry of cultures and flavours, boasts a rich culinary heritage. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene countryside, you’ll find a diverse array of mouthwatering appetizers that will tantalize your taste buds. These delectable treats, often referred to as “small chops,” are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick bite on the go. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant world of Nigerian must-try appetizers.

From crispy fried pastries to savory meat skewers, Nigerian must-try appetizers offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Each bite is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary traditions. So, let’s dive into the world of Nigerian appetizers and discover some of the most popular and delicious options that will leave you craving more.

Top 20 Nigerian Must-Try Appetizers

1. Puff Puff

What it is: Golden-brown, deep-fried dough balls, often described as Nigerian doughnuts. Puff-puff is a top Nigerian must-try appetizer and king of small chops.
What it’s made of: Flour, sugar, yeast, and water.
Best eaten with: Sugar syrup or chocolate sauce.
Best time to serve: Afternoon snack or dessert.
Events to share: Birthdays, parties, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Puff Puff

2. Chin-Chin

What it is: Crispy, deep-fried dough bites, often flavored with spices like ginger or nutmeg.
What it’s made of: Flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and baking powder.
Best eaten with: A cup of tea or coffee.
Best time to serve: Afternoon tea or as a snack.

Events to share: Birthdays, parties, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Chin-Chin

3. Meat Pie

What it is: A savory pastry filled with a spiced meat filling.
What it’s made of: Puff pastry, ground meat, onions, peppers, and spices.
Best eaten with: A cold drink or a cup of tea.
Best time to serve: As a snack or appetizer.
Events to share: Birthdays, parties, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Meat Pie

4. Small Chops

What it is: A general term for a variety of fried snacks, including spring rolls, samosas, and chicken wings. This is a Nigerian must-try appetizer fit for any season.
What it’s made of: Varies depending on the specific small chop.
Best eaten with: A dipping sauce, such as chili sauce or mayonnaise.
Best time to serve: As an appetizer or snack.
Events to share: Birthdays, parties, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Small Chops

5. Suya

What it is: Grilled meat skewers, typically beef or chicken, marinated in a spicy blend of spices.
What it’s made of: Meat, spices, and onions.
Best eaten with: A cold drink or a side dish of roasted corn.
Best time to serve: As a street food or late-night snack.
Events to share: Parties, festivals, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Suya

6. Boli

What it is: Roasted plantains, often served with a variety of toppings. Boli is not just a Nigerian must-try appetizer but also a popular Nigerian street food.
What it’s made of: Plantain.
Best eaten with: Sugar, butter, or ground peanuts.
Best time to serve: As a snack or dessert.
Events to share: Birthdays, parties, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Boli

7. Kebab

What it is: Grilled meat skewers, similar to suya but often marinated in a different spice blend.
What it’s made of: Meat, spices, and onions.
Best eaten with: A cold drink or a side dish of roasted corn.
Best time to serve: As a street food or late-night snack.
Events to share: Parties, festivals, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Kebab

8. Fish Pie

What it is: A savory pie filled with a mixture of fish, potatoes, and spices.
What it’s made of: Puff pastry, fish, potatoes, onions, and spices.
Best eaten with: A side salad or a cup of soup.
Best time to serve: As a lunch or dinner.

Events to share: Special occasions or family gatherings.
Local name: Fish Pie

9. Ewa Agoyin

What it is: A bean pudding made with black-eyed peas, palm oil, and spices.

What it’s made of: Black-eyed peas, palm oil, peppers, and spices.
Best eaten with: Bread or akara (bean cakes).
Best time to serve: As a breakfast or lunch.

Events to share: Family gatherings or as a casual meal.
Local name: Ewa Agoyin

10. Akara

What it is: Deep-fried bean cakes is a must-try appetizer often served with pap (a cornmeal porridge).

What it’s made of: Black-eyed peas, onions, and peppers.
Best eaten with: Pap or a dipping sauce.
Best time to serve: As a breakfast or snack.

Events to share: Family gatherings or as a casual meal.
Local name: Akara

11. Moi Moi

What it is: A steamed bean pudding, often served with pap or bread.

What it’s made of: Black-eyed peas, palm oil, and spices.
Best eaten with: Pap or bread.
Best time to serve: As a breakfast or lunch.

Events to share: Family gatherings or as a casual meal.
Local name: Moi Moi

12. Shawarma

What it is: A Middle Eastern dish adapted to Nigerian taste, typically consisting of grilled meat wrapped in a flatbread. Now, it has become one of the most delicious Nigerian must-try appetizers.

What it’s made of: Meat, vegetables, and a variety of sauces.
Best eaten with: A side of fries or coleslaw.
Best time to serve: As a late-night snack or a quick lunch.

Events to share: Parties, festivals, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Shawarma

13. Kilishi

What it is: Dried, spiced beef, often served as a snack.

What it’s made of: Beef, spices, and salt.
Best eaten with: A cold drink or a side dish of roasted corn.
Best time to serve: As a snack or appetizer.

Events to share: Parties, festivals, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Kilishi

14. Dodo Ikire

What it is: This Nigerian must-try appetizer is fried plantain, often served with a variety of sauces.

What it’s made of: Plantain.
Best eaten with: A dipping sauce, such as chili sauce or mayonnaise.
Best time to serve: As a snack or appetizer.

Events to share: Parties, festivals, or as a casual snack.
Local name: Dodo Ikire

15. Pap

What it is: A thick, porridge-like food made from cornmeal.

Best eaten with: Akara, moi-moi, or any Nigerian soup.
Best time to serve: Breakfast or lunch.
Events to share: Family gatherings or as a casual meal.

Local name: Pap, Ogi

These are just a few of the many delicious Nigerian must-try appetizers that you can try. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.

With its diverse cultures and rich history, Nigeria offers a vibrant culinary scene. From the bustling streets to elegant dining rooms, Nigerian cuisine is a celebration of flavours, textures, and aromas. The appetizers, or “small chops,” are a testament to the country’s culinary creativity and the love for good food. So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and unique dining experience, consider exploring the world of Nigerian cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you.

Until I come your way again, remember to subscribe to Doyin’s Honest Notes and enjoy a drop of honey for your day.

Doyinsola Olawuyi