Akara is a popular snack and breakfast dish in Nigeria, made from black-eyed beans that have been peeled, ground, and deep-fried into fluffy, golden-brown fritters. It is a delicious and nutritious dish that is commonly eaten with pap, custard, or bread. Akara is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of black-eyed beans
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
How To Prepare This Recipe:
- Rinse the beans and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften.
- Peel the beans by rubbing them between your hands to remove the skin, then rinse thoroughly.
- Using a blender or food processor, grind the peeled beans into a smooth paste.
- Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, scotch bonnet pepper, and salt to the bean paste and mix well.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Using a spoon or your hands, scoop the bean mixture and drop it carefully into the hot oil.
- Fry the akara for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the akara from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Health Benefits Of Making Nigerian Akara
Akara is a nutrient-dense food that provides several health benefits. Black-eyed beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Eating akara can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, and support a healthy immune system.