10 Vegan Nigerian Party Food Ideas

Hey there :) In today's blog post we're spicing things up with some incredible vegan Nigerian party food ideas!

If you're on the hunt for vegan party recipes, you've landed in the perfect spot. Nigerian cuisine offers a treasure trove of options. This post is dedicated to those looking to diversify their vegan menu with dishes that are not only delicious but also steeped in tradition. Whether you're planning a vegan wedding, birthday party, or just a casual get-together, these vegan Nigerian recipes are sure to impress your guests and excite their taste buds.

From the classics like Jollof Rice to innovative twists on traditional dishes, I have curated a list of vegan-friendly party foods that celebrate the essence of Nigerian flavours. Let's make your next party a hit with these options:

1. Jollof Rice: A staple in West African cuisine, Jollof Rice can be easily veganised. By substituting beef or chicken stock with a vegetable stock and spices, this dish becomes an ideal vegan treat for any Nigerian event. It's a one pot dish that can easily be made in large quantities. Always a crowd pleaser.

2. Plantain Skewers: Thinly sliced plantains, either ripe or unripe, are deep-fried or baked until they achieve a crispy texture. These chips are a healthier alternative to traditional snacks and can be seasoned with salt, pepper, or other spices. They are an excellent vegan finger food option for guests to nibble on throughout the event.

3. Puff Puff: Similar to a doughnut, Puff Puff is a sweet, fluffy, deep-fried snack. It is a favourite among children and adults at Nigerian celebrations.

4. Vegan Abacha (African Salad): Abacha, also known as African salad, typically includes dried fish, crayfish, and stockfish. Creating a vegan version involves substituting these with plant-based proteins, transforming it into a delicious vegan dish ideal for social gatherings.

5. Akara (Bean Fritters): Akara is a popular Nigerian snack made from blended black-eyed peas, onions, and spices, deep-fried until crispy and golden. This protein-rich delicacy is naturally vegan and makes for a perfect appetiser or side dish at parties. Serve it with a spicy dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for added flavour.

6. Moin Moin: This steamed bean cake, traditionally made with ground beans, onions, peppers, and spices, is a party essential in Nigeria. A vegan version of Moin Moin excludes animal-based items like eggs, fish, crayfish, or meat, making it a savoury plant-based delight.

7. Vegan Suya: Suya, a popular Nigerian street food and party food, typically features skewered and grilled meat coated in a spicy peanut mixture. The vegan version uses chunks of marinated vegetables, tofu, seitan or tempeh, threaded onto skewers and grilled or roasted. The key to its flavour lies in the suya spice mix, made from ground peanuts, paprika, ginger, and other spices, offering a truly unique taste.

8. Chin Chin: This is a crunchy, sweet snack made from flour, sugar, and margarine. For a vegan version, ensure the margarine is plant-based and leave out the eggs. Chin chin can be flavoured with nutmeg or vanilla and is a delightful treat that guests can munch on at any time during the party.

9. Vegan Asun: Asun is typically a spicy, grilled goat meat dish, but the vegan version uses large chunks of mushrooms, marinated in a spicy pepper sauce and grilled to perfection. This dish provides the smoky, spicy flavour of traditional Asun while being completely plant-based.

10. Coconut Fried Rice: This is a fragrant dish made by cooking rice with coconut milk and spices like thyme and bay leaves. Adding diced vegetables like carrots, peas, and sweet corn not only enhances its nutritional value but also adds colour and texture to the dish, making it a visually appealing and delicious vegan party food option.

By offering these vegan alternatives at Nigerian parties, hosts can ensure inclusivity and a memorable culinary experience for all guests, regardless of their dietary preferences. Enjoy celebrating with these delicious party food choices!

For more traditional Nigerian recipes with a vegan twist, check out my cookbook Vegan Nigerian Kitchen.