Akara (Nigerian Bean Fritters)
Crispy golden fritters made from blended beans — beloved across Nigeria.
Akara is a beloved Nigerian breakfast street food — crispy, golden fritters made from peeled black-eyed peas, onions and scotch bonnet. Serve them piping hot with ogi (pap) or bread for the ultimate Nigerian morning.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- Peeled black-eyed peas or honey beans
- Onions
- Scotch bonnet peppers
- Salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
This recipe is included in our One Year Nigerian Meal Plan, making it easy to know exactly what to cook every day. If you're tired of asking "What's for dinner?", our Nigerian Meal Plans take away the guesswork.
Method
- 1
Soak beans for 30 minutes then peel off skins by rubbing in water.
- 2
Blend peeled beans with onions, peppers and very little water until fluffy and smooth.
- 3
Whisk batter vigorously to incorporate air.
Chef tips
- • Whisking the batter is what gives akara its light, fluffy centre — don't rush it.
- • Use minimal water when blending, or the batter will fall apart when frying.
- 4
Heat oil in a deep pan.
- 5
Fry spoonfuls of batter until golden brown on both sides.
- 6
Drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Best served with ogi (pap), bread, or custard for breakfast.
Akara (Nigerian Bean Fritters): Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my akara flat?▾
Too much water in the batter, or the batter wasn't whisked enough to trap air.
Can I bake akara?▾
Yes, but the texture is very different — the traditional deep-fried version is crispier.
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