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Akara

Crispy on the outside and airy on the inside, these traditional black-eyed pea fritters are seasoned with onion and chili.

35 minMediumServes 4280 cal/serving

West AfricanBreakfastStovetop and BlenderVeganVegetarianHigh FiberHalal-friendlyGluten-FreeNut-FreeDairy-FreeSoy-FreeEgg-FreeSesame-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups peeled black-eyed peas, soaked
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded
  • 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 cups vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place 2 cups soaked peeled black-eyed peas, 1 deseeded Scotch bonnet pepper, 1/2 cup chopped red onion, and 1/4 cup water into a blender.

  2. 2

    Blend until smooth, adding minimal water to create a thick batter.

  3. 3

    Transfer the mixture to a bowl, add 1 tsp salt, and whip vigorously with a wooden spoon for 3 minutes to incorporate air.

  4. 4

    Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

  5. 5

    Scoop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown, turning once.

  6. 6

    Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

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Questions

What is Akara?

Crispy on the outside and airy on the inside, these traditional black-eyed pea fritters are seasoned with onion and chili. This reference files it under West African breakfast: made on the stovetop and in a blender, rated medium and about 35 minutes start to finish.

How do I know when Akara is done?

Go by the cues in the method rather than the clock. Step 5: cook until golden brown, turning once.

Is there a substitute for Scotch bonnet in Akara?

The entry for Akara calls for 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded. In its place: Habanero has the same heat and a similar fruitiness. For much less heat, use a jalapeno and a strip of orange bell pepper.

How hot is Akara?

Yes, it is properly hot. The heat in Akara comes from 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded. For a milder plate, remove the seeds and ribs from the pepper, or use half; nothing else in the method changes. For more, add it at the table rather than in the pot, so everyone sets their own level.

How many calories are in Akara?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) is about 280 calories, with 10 g protein, 30 g carbohydrate and 14 g fat, plus 6 g fiber and 350 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

Serve it with

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