From Suya to Small Chops: Top Finger Foods for Nigerian Events 🇳🇬🍢🍤

| By food.goglow.com | Tue Aug 05 2025 | 0 Views | Category Goglow | 8 Comments | |

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In Nigeria, no event is complete without food — and not just any food, but finger-licking, mouthwatering finger foods that keep guests smiling and coming back for more! Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, baby dedication, burial, or corporate event, finger foods are the silent heroes of the menu. From spicy suya to crispy small chops, these bite-sized delights serve as both appetizers and main attractions

Let’s explore the top finger foods that rule the Nigerian event scene.

1. Suya: The Spicy King of the Grill

No finger food list is complete without suya. This spicy, smoky, skewered meat (usually beef or chicken) is a crowd favorite at any Nigerian gathering. Coated in yaji (a blend of ground pepper, ginger, and spices), suya is usually served with onions, cabbage, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of extra spice.

Why it’s a hit:

Spicy, smoky, and packed with flavor

Easy to eat while standing or mingling

Perfect with a cold drink!

2. Small Chops: The All-in-One Combo

Ask any Nigerian about small chops, and their eyes will light up. This finger food combo is the life of the party. It usually includes:

Puff-puff (sweet fried dough)

Samosa (crispy pastry filled with spicy minced meat or veggies)

Spring rolls (vegetable or meat-filled rolls)

Chinchin (crunchy, sweet fried dough pieces)

Mini skewered meats or gizzard

Mosa (plantain-based fritters)

Why it’s a hit:

Offers variety in one plate

Can be customized for vegetarians or meat lovers

Budget-friendly yet classy

3. Peppered Gizzard (Gizdodo Optional)

Peppered gizzard is a spicy and chewy delicacy made from chicken gizzard, stir-fried in hot pepper sauce. For extra glam, it’s sometimes paired with fried plantains to make Gizdodo — a sweet and spicy fusion.

Why it’s a hit:

Bold flavor

Pairs well with other finger foods

Great for cocktail-style events

4. Asun: The Spicy Goat Meat Treat

Asun is grilled goat meat chopped into small bits and stir-fried with pepper, onions, and sometimes bell peppers. It’s smoky, spicy, and undeniably addictive.

Why it’s a hit:

Rich, smoky flavor

Spicy enough to spark conversations!

A symbol of celebration in Yoruba parties

5. Chicken Wings & Drumsticks 

Fried or grilled, chicken wings and drumsticks are always a party favorite. Often marinated in Nigerian-style spices, they’re juicy and perfect for guests who want a meaty snack.

Why it’s a hit:

Universally loved

Can be spicy, BBQ, or honey-glazed

Great for both kids and adults

6. Meat Pie: The Classic Snack

Golden brown on the outside, filled with minced meat, potatoes, and spices on the inside, Nigerian meat pies are savory pastries that always disappear fast at events.

Why it’s a hit:

Filling and satisfying

Neat and easy to serve

Travels well for outdoor events

7. Puff-Puff: The Sweet Crowd-Pleaser 

This deep-fried dough ball is soft, sweet, and loved by all age groups. Puff-puff often appears as part of the small chops combo but can also be served on its own.

Why it’s a hit:

Cheap and cheerful

Great for both formal and casual events

Can be made spicy or sweet

8. Mini Sausages & Cocktail Beef Sticks

Mini sausages and cocktail sticks loaded with beef cubes, veggies, or even cheese are a more modern finger food addition, often found at upscale events and kids' parties.

Why it’s a hit:

Attractive presentation

Modern twist to traditional menus

Easily picked and enjoyed in one bite

9. Fish Fingers & Prawns

For seafood lovers, finger foods like fish fingers, grilled or fried prawns, and spicy seafood skewers provide a delightful touch of class to any event.

Why it’s a hit:

Light, tasty, and crispy

Offers variety for pescatarians

Ideal for high-end parties

10. Plantain Chips & Chin Chin Bowls 

Ideal as fillers or pre-event nibbles, plantain chips and chin chin are simple yet satisfying finger foods often placed on tables or in paper cones for guests to munch on before the main courses.

Why it’s a hit:

Low cost, high volume

Crunchy and addictive

Keeps guests busy before meal 

Conclusion

From spicy suya under the stars to golden puff-puff at birthday parties, Nigerian finger foods are more than just snacks — they are experiences, memories, and part of our rich event culture. If you’re planning an event soon, make sure these delicious treats are on the menu. Your guests will thank you!

Which of these finger foods is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!