Suya Spice is Back—Here’s Everything You Can Do With It
For many of us, Suya is more than food—it's a feeling.
That late-night drive with your cousins, all of you arguing over how much pepper is too much. The newspaper-wrapped suya on the way home from work. The smoky aroma drifting from roadside grills, makes your mouth water long before your eyes can catch the flame. And at the center of all that magic? Suya spice—the true unsung hero of one of West Africa's most iconic dishes.
Image from: Pulse Nigeria
We’re thrilled to announce that your favorite Suya spices are now back in stock at L’Afrique Market, including blends from trusted names like Homefresh, Asiko, the local favorite Bella, and of course, our very own L’Afrique Suya Spice blend.
But what makes Suya spice so special?
Let’s dig in.
Also read: Motherland Shopping Experience: Why L’Afrique Market Feels Like Home for Africans in Chicago
The Anatomy of Suya Spice: What’s Inside This Iconic Blend?
Suya spice—also known as Yaji in Northern Nigeria—is a bold, flavorful mix of heat, smoke, nuttiness, and a hint of sweetness. Unlike many other spice blends, suya spice tells a story with each ingredient. Here’s what goes into the magic:
- Ground Cayenne Pepper
The foundation of suya spice is its fiery kick. Cayenne doesn’t just bring heat—it brings depth. It wakes up the palate and lingers just long enough to keep you wanting more.
- Roasted Ground Peanuts (Kulikuli)
A uniquely West African touch. The finely ground peanuts don’t just add texture—they mellow the heat, add nutty richness, and help the spice adhere better to meat or vegetables. It’s this ingredient that makes suya spice unlike anything else in the world.
- Salt
It may be basic, but it’s essential. Salt enhances all the other flavors and brings balance to the fire and nutty base.
- Garlic & Ginger Powders
These aromatics give suya spice its complexity. Ginger adds warmth and a subtle sweetness, while garlic brings pungency and depth. Together, they help make the flavor stick with you (in the best way possible).
- Onion Powder
Onion powder adds a slight sharpness that rounds out the blend, giving it that familiar “meaty” umami note—even when it’s used on veggies or tofu.
- Paprika
While not always in traditional yaji, our L’Afrique Suya Spice includes paprika for its mild smokiness and vibrant color. It helps achieve that reddish hue that makes your grilled meats look as good as they taste.
So, Why Do We Love It So Much?
Beyond the ingredients, Suya spice has stood the test of time because of the emotions it evokes and the versatility it offers.
It’s a spice blend that crosses borders, from roadside vendors in Kano and Abuja, to homemade meals in London or Atlanta. It reminds us of home. It brings the neighborhood buka into your kitchen. It turns everyday meals into events.
And no matter where you're from, once you've tasted suya, you never forget it.
5 Creative Ways to Use Suya Spice (That Aren’t Just Suya)
Yes, it’s a suya spice—but don’t box it in. This blend works magic on so many dishes:
- Grilled Chicken Thighs or Wings – Dry rub or marinate in oil + suya spice. Grill or air-fry to perfection.
- Spiced Roasted Potatoes – Toss your wedges in olive oil and suya spice before baking.
- Street-Style Suya Noodles – Add suya spice to your stir-fried instant noodles with veggies and beef strips.
- Boli (Roasted Plantain) & Suya Dip – Mix suya spice with yogurt or mayo for a spicy dip that cuts the sweetness of plantain.
- Suya-Spiced Popcorn – A sprinkle of suya spice on warm popcorn? Unexpected. Addictive.
The L’Afrique Difference
Our signature blend is made in small batches, carefully balanced for flavor and freshness. We keep the roasted peanut base rich, not overpowering. The heat is bold, but not offensive. It’s the spice that’s designed to work across meats, veggies, and everything in between.
And while Homefresh and Asiko remain reliable classics, L’Afrique’s Suya Spice is fast becoming a community favorite for one reason: it tastes like home, with a twist.
Ready to Try It?
Whether you're cooking for guests, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something bold and nostalgic—this is the spice to reach for.