West Africa · Street food
Nigerian Asun (Spicy Smoked Goat Meat)
A fiery, aromatic Nigerian street food specialty made of tender roasted goat meat cut into bite-sized pieces and tossed in a coarse, fragrant blend of scotch bonnet peppers, onions, and spices.
The story
Asun originates from the Ondo people of Southwestern Nigeria, where it was traditionally prepared over open charcoal pits for royal banquets and festive gatherings. The signature hallmark of genuine Asun is the smoky char imparted by roasting whole goat meat with the skin intact over hardwood embers. Today, it stands as an iconic fixture of Nigerian owambe celebrations, bustling street corners, and lively night markets across West Africa.
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