Akara
Beninese Bean Fritters
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these savory fritters are made from blended black-eyed peas, onions, and chili. They are a popular street food and appetizer, often served with a spicy sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried black-eyed peas(soaked overnight)
- 1/2 Red onion(coarsely chopped)
- 1/2 Scotch bonnet pepper(or to taste, stemmed)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(peeled)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/4 - 1/2 cup Water(as needed for blending)
- for frying Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain the soaked black-eyed peas. In a blender or food processor, combine the peas, chopped red onion, scotch bonnet pepper, ginger, and 1/4 cup of water. Blend until a thick, smooth paste forms, adding more water a tablespoon at a time if needed to facilitate blending. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape.
💡 Tip: Ensure the batter is not too watery, or the fritters will not hold together. - 2
Transfer the batter to a bowl and stir in the salt. For extra fluffy fritters, beat the batter vigorously with a whisk for about 2 minutes to incorporate air.
- 3
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle and rise.
💡 Tip: Maintain a consistent oil temperature for even cooking. - 4
Using a tablespoon, carefully scoop portions of the batter and gently drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot, for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed up.
- 5
Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot as a snack or appetizer, optionally with a spicy dipping sauce.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, add more scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
- ✓If you don't have fresh peas, you can use canned black-eyed peas, but ensure they are well-drained.
- ✓Akara can be served with various sauces, such as a tomato-based sauce or a simple chili sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped cilantro or spring onions to the batter for extra flavor.
- Some recipes include a small amount of finely chopped bell pepper in the batter.