Gambian Fish and Okra Fritters (Akara Ikan)
Savory fritters made with flaked fish, finely chopped okra, onions, and spices, deep-fried until golden brown. A popular snack or appetizer.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g White fish fillets(cooked and flaked (e.g., tilapia, snapper))
- 150 g Okra(finely chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped)
- 100 g All-purpose flour
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- for frying Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine the flaked fish, finely chopped okra, chopped onion, chopped scotch bonnet pepper, and chopped cilantro.
- 2
Add the all-purpose flour, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper to the fish and okra mixture. Mix well until everything is combined and forms a thick batter.
- 3
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches about 175°C (350°F).
- 4
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches.
- 5
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- 6
Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 7
Serve hot with a dipping sauce or as a side dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the okra is very finely chopped to avoid stringiness.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your spice preference.
- ✓Maintain a consistent oil temperature for even cooking and to prevent the fritters from becoming greasy.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of ginger and garlic paste to the batter for more flavor.
- Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers for added color and texture.