Introduction
Akara is a popular Nigerian street food made from blended black-eyed peas, onions, and peppers, deep-fried into golden, fluffy fritters. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Akara is commonly enjoyed for breakfast, often served with pap (ogi) or bread. It is also a beloved snack across West Africa and widely sold by roadside vendors.
This simple yet flavourful dish has deep roots in Nigerian culinary tradition. In many households, Akara is a weekend breakfast favourite, enjoyed fresh and hot straight from the frying oil. Its versatility makes it perfect as a snack, side dish, or light meal.
In this recipe, you will learn how to prepare authentic Nigerian Akara with the perfect texture and flavour.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups black-eyed peas (beans)
- 1 small onion
- 1–2 scotch bonnet peppers
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the Beans
Soak black-eyed peas in water for 30 minutes to loosen the skins. - Remove the Skins
Rub the beans between your hands and rinse repeatedly to remove the outer skins. Drain thoroughly. - Blend the Mixture
Blend the peeled beans with onion and pepper until smooth and thick. Add very little water. - Whisk the Batter
Transfer to a bowl and whisk vigorously for several minutes to incorporate air. This helps create fluffy Akara. - Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan on medium heat. - Fry the Akara
Scoop batter into the hot oil using a spoon. Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. - Drain and Serve
Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Whisking is Key: This creates light, fluffy fritters.
- Do Not Add Too Much Water: Thick batter gives better texture.
- Spicy Option: Add chopped fresh chilli to the batter.
- Healthier Option: Air fry lightly brushed Akara for reduced oil use.
What to Serve with Akara
Akara pairs beautifully with:
- Pap (Ogi)
- Bread
- Moi Moi
- Puff Puff (as part of a snack platter)
- Fried Plantain
Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
FAQs
Why is my Akara flat?
The batter may not have been whisked enough to incorporate air.
Can I use canned beans?
Fresh dried beans work best for authentic texture.
Final Thoughts
Akara is a simple yet deeply satisfying Nigerian classic. Its crispy exterior and soft interior make it a perfect breakfast or snack option. Adding Akara to your recipe collection strengthens your Nigerian snack cluster and connects beautifully with other bean-based dishes like Moi Moi.
