What is Suya Spice (Yaji)? A Guide to Nigeria's Iconic Spice Blend

Suya spice, known as yaji in Hausa, is the distinctive spice blend used to make Nigerian Suya — the country's most famous street food. It is a complex blend of ground peanuts, spices, and dried ingredients that gives suya its characteristic nutty, spicy, smoky flavour.

What's in Suya Spice?

Traditional yaji contains a combination of:

• Ground roasted peanuts — the base of the blend
• Paprika — for colour and mild heat
• Ginger powder
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Ground crayfish — for umami depth
• Kuli kuli (dried peanut cake) — ground and added for texture
• Cayenne pepper — for heat
• Salt

How to Use Suya Spice

Suya spice is used as a dry rub for meat before grilling. It can also be used as:

• A seasoning for roasted chicken or lamb
• A spice rub for barbecue
• A flavouring for roasted nuts
• A seasoning for stir-fries and rice dishes

Where to Buy Suya Spice in the UK

Authentic suya spice (yaji) is available at AfroSpice.co.uk. We stock several brands of suya spice, including both mild and hot varieties.