How to Make Perfect Oil Akara | Crispy Nigerian Bean Cakes

black-eyed peas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Lentils offer a similar texture and flavor with fewer calories.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Coconut oil adds a unique flavor while being healthier.

onion

🥗Healthier: shallots

💰Cheaper: leeks

Shallots provide a milder taste with fewer calories.

scotch bonnet pepper

🥗Healthier: jalapeño

💰Cheaper: serrano pepper

Jalapeños offer heat with a more accessible flavor.

Soak 1 kilo of black-eyed peas in warm water for 30 minutes, then drain and rinse to remove black spots.

Leave the beans to soak for an additional hour, totaling 1 hour 30 minutes.

Heat palm oil and vegetable oil together until ready for frying.

Add clean water to the rinsed beans and blend with just a little water to achieve a solid consistency.

Transfer the blended mixture to a larger bowl for easier mixing.

Slice onions and scotch bonnet pepper, then add them to the bean mixture along with salt and mix until fluffy.

Heat the oil on medium heat and scoop the mixture into the hot oil, frying until golden brown, flipping as necessary.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens