Akara Beans - African Bean Fritters is a popular West African street food made from black-eyed peas with other ingredients and deep-fried. This is one of the simplest snacks with few ingredients but very tricky. I will highlight essential tips and tricks to make the best fluffy Akara.

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It is called Accra beans in Cameroon, Akara beans in Nigeria and Koose in Ghana. I also came across a documentary where something similar was made in Brazil called acaraje, which has fillings, but I have never tried it.

I usually enjoy the morning flavors from the streets, with Akara flavors hitting you from every corner. You cannot resist this. I will get some and fill it inside bread, what an excellent breakfast. It's worth trying, indeed, and you can make it in the comfort of your home. You'll also enjoy our cassava and banana fritters.

Ingredients Used:

Black-eyes peas
Salt
Habanero peppers
Water
Oil to deep fry

How To Peel The Beans

You cannot make Akara without peeling the beans. I often buy the already-peeled beans to save stress and soak them overnight to soften them.

If you are using unpeeled beans,

Soak it overnight, transfer it to a food processor, press pulse a few times to remove the skin.
Transfer to a bowl and add enough water. The skin will float. Now, use a colander to remove and discard the skin.
Repeat the process until you remove all the skin.

If you do not have a food processor, use your hands to rub the beans until the skin comes off. Rinse until no skin is visible.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Akara is made differently according to preference. So make it according to your taste buds.

You can add bell peppers.
Do not over-blend to be entirely smooth. You want it to have a slightly coarse consistency.
Some people add seasoning powder. I don't like the taste. Salt will do the trick for you.
No, you cannot air fry or bake. That will not be Akara.
Adjust the hot peppers according to your level of heat.

What To Serve With Akara Beans

Pap or Akamu
Bread
Tea or coffee
As it is