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Nigerian Akara

Nigeria

Akara has West African roots and travelled with the transatlantic slave trade, evolving into the acarajé of Bahia, Brazil.

Deep-fried Nigerian bean fritters made from blended black-eyed peas, crisp outside and fluffy within — a beloved breakfast street food.

Authentic Nigeria Nigerian Akara recipe
Prep
20 mins plus soaking
Cook
15 mins
Difficulty
Medium
Calories
425 kcal
Serves
6
Calories are an estimate based on ingredients used

Ingredients

300gblack-eyed peas, soaked and peeled
1onion, roughly chopped
1scotch bonnet chilli
1 tspsalt
oilfor deep frying

Method

1

Blend soaked, peeled beans with onion and chilli, adding minimal water, until smooth and airy.

2

Whip the mixture vigorously by hand to incorporate air, which helps the fritters puff.

3

Season with salt.

4

Drop spoonfuls into hot oil and deep fry for 4-5 minutes until deeply golden and cooked through.

Chef's Tip

Whipping the batter thoroughly to incorporate air is essential for light, fluffy akara rather than dense ones.

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Some recipe photos courtesy of Openverse and Wikimedia Commons contributors, used under Creative Commons licenses.
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