Top 10 Nigerian Seafood Dishes
Nigerian seafood dishes are some of the most unique and delicious in the world. With their vibrant mix of traditional African flavors and spices, these dishes provide an unforgettable culinary experience that is sure to please any palate.
Check out our reviews of other seafood dishes from around the world.
From Suya Shrimp to Barbeque Tilapia, Nigerian Fish Pies, and Seafood Fried Rice, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Try some of these amazing dishes today and let your taste buds take a journey through the diverse flavors of Nigeria!
1. Seafood Okra Soup
Have you ever tried Nigerian Seafood Okra Soup? This soup is not only packed with flavor but also has a bounty of nutrients.
The okra provides a slightly slimy texture that pairs well with the fresh seafood of your choice. From shrimp to crab to crayfish to fish, the options are endless. The soup is made with vegetables like red peppers, Scotch bonnets, onions, spinach, kale, special ogbono seeds (you can see them in the image in the bowl at the top), and a mix of secret spices that have been passed down through generations.
It’s a comforting dish that warms your soul on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or want to impress guests, Seafood Okra Soup is a must-try dish. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredients, give it a try and you just might like it!
2. Afang Soup
Have you ever tried Afang? It’s one of my all-time favorite dishes. Originating from the Efik people in Nigeria, this soup has gained popularity not just in Nigeria, but also among lovers of African cuisine worldwide.
The soup is made from a blend of vegetables and assorted seafood cooked in a soup base seasoned with fresh herbs. One unique thing about Afang is the use of afang (aka okazi) leaves, which gives the soup its distinctive taste.
In traditional Nigerian settings, Afang is served with fufu (pounded yam). However, you can also enjoy it with rice or any other preferred staple. If you ever visit Nigeria, be sure to give Afang a try. You definitely won’t regret it!
3. Egusi Soup
Have you ever heard of Egusi Soup? It’s a traditional Nigerian dish that is a staple dish in many Nigerian households. The creamy, nutty flavor of the soup is perfectly paired with a side dish of fufu (pounded yam) or rice.
What makes Egusi Soup unique is the use of ground egusi seeds, aka melon seeds, as the main ingredient. The seeds are high in protein and have a texture similar to pumpkin seeds.
The texture of Egusi Soup is thick and rich, and the flavor is deeply satisfying. It’s no wonder that this dish is such a favorite in Nigeria and beyond. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a try — you might just discover a new favorite!
4. Fish Stew
As a huge fan of Nigerian cuisine, I have to say that Nigerian Fish Stew is one of my all-time favorite dishes. Its rich and aromatic flavors are truly unmatched and always leave my tastebuds absolutely satisfied.
The stew is typically made with a combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers that have been simmered down to a thick and tangy base. From there, chunks of tender fish are added to the mix along with a variety of seasonings, including garlic, ginger, and cumin. What I love most about this dish is that it can be easily customized to fit your preferences, allowing for endless variations of spices and ingredients.
It’s no surprise that this flavorful stew is a staple in Nigeria and is popular throughout the country. If you haven’t had the chance to try Nigerian Fish Stew yet, I highly recommend it!
5. Grilled Fish
I absolutely love exploring the flavors of Nigeria, and one of my all-time favorite dishes is Nigerian Grilled Fish. This tasty meal is served with grilled plantain, which perfectly complements the fish.
The key to the dish is in the grill — the fish is marinated in a variety of spices and herbs and grilled to a perfectly crispy exterior while remaining tender and moist on the inside. Every bite is packed with authentic Nigerian flavor, from the smoky char of the grill to the warm and inviting combination of spices.
And let’s not forget the plantain — the sweetness of the grilled fruit is perfectly balanced against the saltiness of the fish. Every time I take a bite of Nigerian Grilled Fish, I am transported back to the vibrant streets of Lagos. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience Nigeria’s rich culture.
6. Coconut Fish Curry
I have a major weakness for spices and flavors that can transport me to different parts of the world without ever leaving the comfort of my kitchen. Coconut Fish Curry, is one of those dishes that takes me on an excursion to Nigeria with every bite. The combination of fresh coconut milk, earthy spices, and tender chunks of fish make this dish just delicious.
If you’ve never tried Nigerian cuisine, this is definitely a must. Its harmonic blend of spices mixed with a splash of creamy coconut is like nothing else. Every bite is a burst of flavor that will have you planning a visit to this wonderful country. So give it a try, I promise you won’t regret it!
7. Suya Shrimp
I had the pleasure of trying Suya Shrimp during my travels in Nigeria, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute game-changer. For those who don’t know, Suya is a traditional style of cooking which involves marinating meat pieces in a marinade of garlic, ginger, red pepper, onion, paprika, and roasted groundnuts (which can be subbed with peanut powder if you don’t have groundnuts), and then grilling it on skewers.
Now, imagine that same blend of flavors but with succulent shrimp instead — that’s Suya Shrimp. The tender pieces of shrimp are infused with a smoky, spicy flavor that’s out of this world. They are normally served with slices of red onion and lime wedges. And what’s more… these lovely morsels are a popular street food that is served in newspaper because it is an effective and cheap way to catch all the excess oil.
If you’re a fan of seafood and haven’t tried Suya Shrimp yet, you’re missing out on an unforgettable culinary experience that’ll leave you craving more!
8. Barbeque Tilapia
Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the taste of Nigerian Barbeque Tilapia. As someone who loves trying new foods, this dish was an absolute treat.
From the moment I saw the chef skillfully clean and season the fresh tilapia with a blend of African spices which included tatashe (Romano pepper), I knew I was in for something special. The smoky, char-grilled taste combined with the tangy seasoning creates a mouth-watering sensation that I just couldn’t get enough of while I was in Nigeria.
And it’s no surprise that tilapia is a popular choice for barbequing in Nigeria — the flavor is simply irresistible. If you ever find yourself in Nigeria, be sure to seek out a restaurant or street vendor that offers this delicacy. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
9. Seafood Fried Rice
I recently had the delightful opportunity to try Nigerian Seafood Fried Rice for the first time, and let me tell you, it was amazing. As someone who loves both seafood and rice dishes, this meal hit all the right spots.
The combination of jumbo shrimp, succulent crab meat, and crispy fried rice made for a delicious and unforgettable experience. What I loved most, though, was how the dish incorporated a mix of African and Asian flavors — a testament to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine. Everything about the dish was spot on, from the savory seasoning to the perfectly cooked seafood. I left feeling incredibly satisfied!
If you’re a seafood fan like me, I highly recommend giving Nigerian Seafood Fried Rice a try — you’ll love it!
10. Nigerian Fish Pies
I have to tell you about the best snack I’ve ever had in Nigeria — Nigerian Fish Pies! These pies are common street foods that you can find in most parts of the country. They’re flaky, crispy, and oh-so-tasty. Baked to perfection, the filling is made from mackerel fish, potatoes, onions, and spices.
It’s the perfect snack for when you’re on the go, or if you need a quick bite between meals. But trust me — you won’t want to stop at just one! And what is great is that Fish Pies are not only delicious but also very affordable.
If you ever find yourself in Nigeria, I highly recommend trying these pies — they won’t disappoint. The combination of the crispy pastry and the savory fishy filling is just perfect!
Wrapping It Up
For lovers of seafood, Nigerian cuisine has delicious offerings that will satisfy even the pickiest eater. From grilled fish to spicy shrimp and savory fish pies, there is something for everyone.
With so many delicious options, it’s hard to choose just one. So why not give each dish a try and see which one you like the best? You won’t regret it!
Gbádùn oúnjẹ rẹ!
