Akara Fritters are a West African appetizer made from black eyed peas, which are also known as black eyed beans.They have a smooth texture, with a pea-like flavor and are a good source of vegetable protein. Like most beans, they are high in fiber and low in fat.
Although traditional recipes use freshly homemade soaked beans, you can substitute with canned beans, which will cut the preparation time by quite a bit. If you can’t find canned beans, you can easily to soak your own. Home soaked beans taste even better,so if you have some time, make your own!

AKARA FRITTERS RECIPE

Akara fritters capture the essence of Nigerian cuisine in every bite. These golden delights are more than just a snack – they're a connection to tradition and a celebration of flavor. With a crispy exterior and a hearty center, Akara fritters invite you to experience the rich tapestry of Nigerian culinary heritage in your own kitchen.

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Cook Time 1

Total Time 1

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Africa

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

1 bowl
1 spoon
1 paper towel
1 oven

Ingredients

2 cups cooked black eyed peas
½ cup onion, minced
3 tbsp garlic, minced
2 tbsp flour
1 tsp hot chili peppers
salt & pepper to season

Instructions

Mix all ingredients in a bowl thoroughly.
Divide mixture into 10-12 equal portions and then shape into small balls.
Place in the refrigerator for about 30-60 min or overnight.
Heat oil to 350°F
Drop the balls into hot oil with a large spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown in color.
Remove and drain on a plate lined with paper towel.
Let cool slightly, before serving with your favorite hot sauce!

Video

Notes

These fritters are great served hot with your favorite hot sauce!
You can also serve them with our spicy peanut sauce.
They also make a fantastic tasty snack.

Keyword snack

Things to pay attention to when cooking Akara fritters

Black-Eyed Peas Preparation: Soak the black-eyed peas overnight or for at least 6 hours. This ensures they are soft enough for blending and helps in achieving the desired texture of the fritters.
Blending Consistency: Blend the soaked black-eyed peas and onions to a smooth and thick batter. A well-blended batter contributes to the fluffiness of the fritters.
Oil Temperature: Heat the frying oil to the right temperature – around 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer or a small piece of batter to test the oil’s readiness. If the oil is too hot, the fritters might brown quickly on the outside but remain uncooked on the inside.
Frying Technique: Gently scoop the batter using a spoon and carefully slide it into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to uneven frying. The fritters should float to the surface and turn golden brown.
Turning and Flipping: As the fritters fry, gently turn them to ensure even browning on all sides. Use a slotted spoon or spatula for this process. Do not press down on the fritters, as this can make them absorb excess oil.
Draining Excess Oil: Once the fritters are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Seasoning: Add spices like ground pepper, ginger, and herbs to the batter for flavor. Be mindful of the amount to avoid overpowering the natural taste of the fritters.
Consistency of Batter: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but not too stiff. If it’s too thin, the fritters might absorb too much oil; if it’s too thick, they may not cook through.
Testing First Batch: Always fry a small batch of fritters first to test the oil temperature and batter consistency. This way, you can make adjustments before frying the entire batch.
Serving Fresh: Akara fritters are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve them immediately with a side of pepper sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.

Serving suggestions

Traditional Breakfast: Serve Akara fritters as a classic Nigerian breakfast dish. Pair them with sliced ripe plantains, pap (ogi), or custard for a hearty morning meal.
Street Food Delight: Akara is a popular street food in Nigeria. Wrap the fritters in newspaper or serve them in small paper bags for an authentic street food experience.
Brunch Special: Include Akara fritters as part of a brunch spread. Serve them alongside yam porridge, jollof rice, fried plantains, and scrambled eggs for a flavorful and diverse meal.
Filling Snack: Akara makes for a satisfying and nutritious snack. Enjoy them on their own or with a spicy pepper sauce for dipping.
Appetizer Platter: Create an appetizer platter by pairing Akara fritters with other Nigerian finger foods like puff-puff, suya, and moi moi. This is perfect for social gatherings and parties.
Healthy Twist: For a healthier option, serve Akara with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. This provides a balance of flavors and textures.
Sandwiches or Wraps: Use Akara fritters as a unique filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some sliced vegetables and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a creative lunch idea.
Cultural Fusion: Combine Akara with dishes from other cultures. Serve them with tortillas, salsa, and guacamole for a fusion of Nigerian and Mexican flavors.
Toppings: Sprinkle chopped herbs, onions, and tomatoes over the fritters for added freshness and color.
Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as tomato-based sauces, yogurt-based dressings, or spicy chutneys, to complement the flavor of the Akara fritters.

FAQs of Akara Fritters

What are the key ingredients for Akara fritters? Akara fritters are primarily made with black-eyed peas, onions, and a mixture of spices like pepper, ginger, and herbs.
Can I make Akara fritters gluten-free? Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour or rice flour as a substitute for wheat flour in this recipe.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for Akara? Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight and properly blending the batter to a smooth consistency is key to achieving the desired texture – crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
Can I refrigerate leftover Akara fritters? Yes, you can store leftover Akara fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze Akara fritters for later use? Certainly! After frying, let the fritters cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. Reheat from frozen in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.

Savor the taste of Nigerian tradition with every bite of Akara fritters. These golden gems are more than food – they’re a connection to culture, shared moments, and delightful flavors. Enjoy them anytime, anywhere, and let the essence of Nigerian cuisine enrich your palate.