Kilishi (Nigerian Beef Jerky) finished dish
Everyday meals · Nigeria

Kilishi (Nigerian Beef Jerky)

Kilishi is a spicy, thinly sliced beef jerky popular in northern Nigeria. It is made by marinating meat in a spiced peanut-based paste and then drying it. Traditionally sun-dried, modern versions are often oven-baked for convenience.

EST. TOTAL TIME59 min
DIFFICULTYEasy
SERVESSee recipe

Time and difficulty are editorial estimates; allow extra time for your equipment and experience.

What you’ll need

Tap an ingredient as you get it ready.

Let’s make it

  1. Step 1

    Rub salt on both sides of the beef slices and let sit for 10 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Lay the slices flat on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 250°C (482°F) for 15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Pound or blend the ginger and garlic into a paste. In a bowl, mix the paste with the stock cube, cloves, cayenne seeds, suya spice, and a few tablespoons of water to form a marinade.

  4. Step 4

    Rub the marinade onto the partially baked meat slices, coating them well.

  5. Step 5

    Return the slices to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, flipping occasionally until fully dry and slightly crispy.

  6. Step 6

    Remove from the oven and let cool before serving or storing.

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