Street Food
Soya (Cameroonian Grilled Beef Skewers)
Ingredients
- - Beef sirloin, thinly sliced -- 600 g (1.3 lb)
- - Roasted groundnuts, finely ground -- 80 g (1/2 cup)
- - Ground ginger -- 1 tsp (1 tsp)
- - Ground chili pepper -- 1-2 tsp (1-2 tsp)
- - Paprika -- 1 tsp (1 tsp)
- - Onion powder -- 1 tsp (1 tsp)
- - Salt -- 1 tsp (1 tsp)
- - Vegetable oil -- 2 tbsp (2 tbsp)
- - Wooden skewers, soaked -- 10-12 (10-12)
Method
- Combine ground groundnuts, ginger, chili, paprika, onion powder and salt to make the soya spice mix.
- Toss the beef slices in oil, then coat thoroughly in the spice mix, pressing it into the meat.
- Thread the coated beef onto skewers, folding thin slices for even grilling.
- Grill over hot charcoal or a grill pan for 2–3 minutes per side until charred at the edges and cooked through.
- Serve hot, wrapped in paper, with extra spice mix and sliced onion on the side.
Introduction: Soya are thin strips of beef marinated in a dry, peanut-based spice blend and grilled over open charcoal, sold from smoky roadside stands that light up Cameroonian evenings.
Cultural Background: Soya are thin strips of beef marinated in a dry, peanut-based spice blend and grilled over open charcoal, sold from smoky roadside stands that light up Cameroonian evenings. Closely related to suya found across the wider region, soya vendors are a fixture of nightlife, serving skewers wrapped in paper with extra spice on the side for those who want more heat.
Tips: Slice the beef thinly and against the grain for tender, quick-cooking skewers. Keep extra spice mix on hand — soya is traditionally served with more for dipping or dusting.
Variations: Chicken or goat meat can be used in place of beef. Increase chili for a hotter, more traditional roadside version. Substitute firm tofu or mushroom skewers, coated in the same spice mix and grilled.
Storage: Refrigerate cooked skewers up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat briefly on a hot grill pan or under a broiler for 2 minutes per side.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Carbs: 5 g | Fat: 16 g | Fiber: 1 g
FAQs:
Q: What gives soya its distinctive coating?
A: The ground roasted groundnut and spice blend, similar to suya spice, gives it its signature crust and nutty heat.
Q: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
A: Grilling gives the authentic char; baking at a high temperature under a broiler is the closest indoor alternative.