Akara

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried black-eyed peas (or 3 cups fresh or canned black-eyed peas)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1–2 fresh hot peppers (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp baking powder (optional, for fluffier texture)
• 1/4 cup water (or as needed)
• 2 tbsp palm oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas:

   • If using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight in water, then drain and peel them by rubbing the beans between your hands. If you’re using canned or fresh beans, just rinse them thoroughly.
   • If you prefer, you can leave some skins on for texture, but traditionally the beans are peeled.

2. Blend the Beans:

   • Place the peeled beans into a food processor or blender. Add the chopped onions, hot peppers (if using), salt, pepper, and ginger.
   • Blend the mixture into a smooth paste, adding water gradually to achieve a thick batter-like consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender occasionally.

3. Fry the Akara:

   • Heat the palm oil or vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
   • Using a spoon or your hands, form small balls of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry the akara for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove the fried akara from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Serve:

   • Serve the akara hot with dipping sauces or as a side to your favorite meal. They pair well with pap (fermented cornmeal porridge), rice, or stews.

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Nutritional Values (Approx. Per Serving, 1 Akara):

Assuming this recipe makes around 20 pieces, here are the approximate nutritional values for 1 Akara:

• Calories: 60–80 kcal
• Protein: 3–4 g
• Carbohydrates: 10–12 g
  • Fiber: 2–3 g
  • Sugars: 1–2 g (from beans and onion)
• Fat: 3–5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1–2 g (depending on the oil used)
• Cholesterol: 0–5 mg (if using vegetable oil)
• Sodium: 100–150 mg (depending on added salt)
• Vitamins & Minerals:
  • Vitamin A: 2–5% of the Daily Value (if using palm oil)
  • Iron: 5–7% of the Daily Value (from black-eyed peas)

Akara is a tasty, crispy, and nutritious dish that’s perfect as a snack or appetizer. You can experiment with the spices and herbs in the batter to make it your own.