There are some Nigerian vegan recipes you need to try if you haven’t, exploring veganism in Nigeria and this opens up a world of vibrant flavors, colorful plates, and healthy choices without compromising on taste.
With an abundance of plant-based ingredients available in local markets, it’s easier than ever to enjoy delicious, cruelty-free meals.
Top Nigerian Vegan Recipes to Try
Here are some mouthwatering Nigerian vegan recipes that celebrate traditional flavors while staying fully plant-based.
Vegan Jollof Rice
A staple of West African cuisine, Jollof Rice can easily be made vegan. Using a rich tomato, pepper, and onion base, this dish is a celebration of bold flavors. Add vegetable broth for depth and serve with sautéed vegetables or fried plantains for a satisfying meal. Ingredients include:
- Rice
- Tomato, bell pepper, onion, and garlic blend
- Vegetable broth
- Spices: thyme, bay leaves, curry powder
- Olive oil
- Carrots, peas, green beans (optional)
Bean Cake (Vegan Akara)
Akara is a popular Nigerian street food, made from ground black-eyed beans and deep-fried into crispy balls. This recipe skips the egg, but the flavor remains rich and satisfying. Ingredients include:
- Black-eyed beans (peeled)
- Onion, bell pepper
- Salt, pepper, and cayenne
- Oil for frying
Egusi Soup (Without Meat)
Egusi soup, traditionally made with melon seeds, can be veganized by omitting meat and fish. It’s rich, hearty, and can be served with pounded yam or eba. Ingredients include:
- Ground melon seeds (egusi)
- Palm oil
- Spinach or ugu leaves
- Ground crayfish (optional vegan alternatives like mushrooms or ground peanuts)
- Pepper, tomatoes, onions
Nigerian Yam Porridge (Asaro)
Asaro is a comforting dish made with yam cooked in a thick, spicy tomato sauce. It’s naturally vegan and makes for a filling meal. Ingredients include:
- Yam (cut into cubes)
- Tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions
- Palm oil or vegetable oil
- Spices: thyme, bay leaf, cayenne
- Spinach or other greens
Vegan Suya
This beloved Nigerian street food, typically made with grilled meat, can easily be transformed into a vegan delight by using tofu, mushrooms, or even seitan. Coat with suya spice (yaji) and grill or roast for a flavorful, spicy kick. Ingredients include:
- Tofu or mushrooms
- Suya spice (ground peanuts, cayenne, ginger, garlic, paprika)
- Olive oil for grilling
Plantain and Beans (Vegan Version of Dodo and Ewa Agoyin)
A classic combination, fried plantains with beans is naturally vegan and oh-so-satisfying. The beans are slow-cooked and spiced with onions, pepper, and tomatoes, while the plantains are fried to golden perfection. Ingredients include:
- Ripe plantains
- Black-eyed beans
- Tomato, onion, pepper blend
- Palm oil
Okra Soup (Vegan Version)
Okra soup, traditionally made with seafood or meat, can be just as delightful without animal products. The slimy texture of the okra and the rich flavor of palm oil, combined with vegetables like spinach, makes it a unique and tasty dish. Ingredients include:
- Fresh okra (chopped)
- Palm oil
- Ugu leaves or spinach
- Ground pepper, onions, and tomatoes
Final Thoughts
Nigerian vegan recipes not only honor tradition but also offer a healthier, more sustainable way to enjoy our favorite dishes. With rich ingredients like yams, plantains, and beans, vegan food in Nigeria is anything but bland. Whether you’re already vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these recipes are packed with flavor and nutrition!
