Akara | Kosai | Acaraje

Akara is a common street food found in some West African countries and Brazil. There are variations to Akara depending on the geographic location and personal preference. Akara is a typical go to breakfast meal for most family in some west African country, because it is sold in many street corner. My recipe is simple, easy to make and equally delicious.

Directions

Wash (peel the skin from the beans) and soak the beans for about 5 hours or overnight.
Blend the beans, habanero pepper, onion with very little water till smooth. If you add too much water, the mixture would be too runny and the akara would not hold its shape.
Slice onion and pepper
Pour blended mixture in a mixing bowl, add chopped onions, pepper, paprika, salt to taste, and mix to combine. Take time to beat in some air until it is fluffy. You can do this with a mixer, food processor, spatula or the traditional way, with a mortar and pestle.
Heat up some vegetable oil. When it is hot, scoop the mixture into the oil with a spoon or ice cream scoop. You can make your akara big or small, it depends on the size of your spoon.
Fry on both side on medium heat until golden brown.
Enjoy with akamu (pap) or bread.

Ingredients

5 cups Black eyed peas

Vegetable oil

3 Habanero pepper

1 large onion

1 tsp Paprika (optional - for color)

Salt to taste