Kuli Kuli
Kuli Kuli is a popular Nigerian snack made from roasted groundnuts (peanuts). These crunchy, savory cakes are addictive and can be enjoyed on their own or with a beverage. This recipe details how to make them from scratch, including extracting the peanut oil for frying.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g Roasted groundnuts (peanuts)(Ensure the groundnuts are already roasted and unsalted. If using raw peanuts, roast them first until fragrant and lightly colored.)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger(Finely grated or minced. Adjust to taste.)
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper(Or to taste. For a spicier kick, add more.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(Or to taste. Use fine salt for better distribution.)
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar(Optional, for a touch of sweetness. Can be omitted for a purely savory snack.)
- For deep frying Vegetable oil or peanut oil(You can use the oil extracted from the groundnuts themselves, or additional vegetable/peanut oil.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Peanut Paste: Place the roasted groundnuts in a food processor or a powerful blender. Process continuously for about 10-15 minutes. You'll notice the nuts breaking down, forming a crumbly texture, then a thick paste. Keep processing until the paste becomes smooth and the natural peanut oil starts to separate, creating a glossy sheen. Scrape down the sides of the processor as needed.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 2
Extract Excess Oil (Optional but Recommended): Once a smooth paste forms, you can optionally extract some of the excess oil to achieve a crispier Kuli Kuli. Transfer the paste to a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Gently press and squeeze the paste to release as much oil as possible. Reserve this extracted oil for frying later. The remaining paste should be firm enough to shape.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 3
Flavor the Paste: To the peanut paste (whether oil has been extracted or not), add the grated ginger, cayenne pepper, salt, and sugar (if using). Knead the ingredients thoroughly into the paste using your hands until everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should be firm and hold its shape.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Shape the Kuli Kuli: Take small portions of the flavored paste and shape them. Common shapes include small sticks (about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick), small balls, or flattened discs. Ensure the shapes are relatively uniform for even cooking.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 5
Fry the Kuli Kuli: Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil or the reserved peanut oil in a deep pot or deep fryer over medium heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 160°C (320°F). Carefully add the shaped Kuli Kuli pieces to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and feel firm and crunchy to the touch. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes (total frying time for all batches) - 6
Drain and Cool: Once golden and crunchy, remove the Kuli Kuli from the hot oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool completely. They will become even crispier as they cool.
⏱️ 10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra crispiness, ensure you extract as much oil as possible before shaping, or use additional frying oil.
- ✓Monitor the frying closely to prevent burning, as the sugar content can cause them to brown quickly.
- ✓Kuli Kuli is a traditional snack from Northern Nigeria, particularly popular among the Hausa people.
- ✓Ensure the groundnuts are well-roasted for the best flavor and texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Spicier: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Sweeter: Increase the sugar content or add a drizzle of honey after frying.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in a small amount of finely chopped roasted peanuts into the paste before shaping.