Thin beef skewers take on a toasted peanut and chile crust over high heat, bringing the smoky character of Nigerian suya to the grill.
A dry, nutty coating is central to Beef Suya. The thin slices cook quickly over a hot grill, leaving charred edges around tender meat and a fragrant mix of peanut, ginger and chile on the surface.
Traditional Nigerian suya spice often uses ground kuli-kuli, a peanut cake. Unsweetened defatted peanut powder is a useful substitute because it coats the beef without turning into an oily paste, unlike freshly ground whole peanuts.
Method
Mix peanut powder, paprika, ground ginger, garlic powder, cayenne and salt. Toss the sirloin with vegetable oil, then press the spice mixture onto the slices.
Thread the beef loosely onto 8 metal skewers. Refrigerate for while heating a grill to medium-high, about 450°F (230°C).
Grill for per side until the edges char and the thickest folded slices reach 145°F. Move skewers away from flare-ups so the peanut coating does not burn.
Rest for , then serve the skewers with sliced red onion and tomato alongside.
Forkue tips
- Look for plain peanut powder without added sugar; sweetened powders can burn and change the seasoning.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate cooked beef for up to 3 days. Slide it off the skewers and warm briefly in a skillet with a splash of water, keeping the fresh onion and tomato separate.
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Kitchen gear
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Photo: secretlondon123, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)
Beef Suya: FAQ
Can I cook suya without a grill?
Yes. Broil on a rack set over a sheet pan, turning once and watching closely because the peanut coating colors quickly. Check the meat temperature before serving.
Can I use peanut butter in the spice mix?
It creates a wet coating and is not a direct replacement. Defatted peanut powder gives the dry, clinging crust much more effectively.
How do I store and reheat Beef Suya?
Refrigerate cooked beef for up to 3 days. Slide it off the skewers and warm briefly in a skillet with a splash of water, keeping the fresh onion and tomato separate.
How long does Beef Suya take?
About 1 hr 2 min in total: 50 min prep and 12 min cooking.
What do I need to make Beef Suya?
The key ingredients are sirloin, peanut powder, paprika, ground ginger, garlic powder and cayenne pepper, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Beef Suya?
Look for plain peanut powder without added sugar; sweetened powders can burn and change the seasoning.
