Simple steps to making the delicious Nigerian akara

Akara originated from the western region of Nigeria and has since become a widely accepted food by all people, regardless of tribe. 

Typically consumed for breakfast, akara pairs perfectly with either bread or pap. This meal is rich in protein, nutritious and very delicious. 

Below, I will provide you with a breakdown of how to prepare this delicious traditional food. Here's a simple recipe for making akara:

Ingredients

• 2 cups of beans
• 1 onion
• Chilli peppers to taste
• Ground crayfish (optional)
• Seasoning (Salt and Maggi)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Soak the beans: 

Select the beans, rinse thoroughly and soak them in water for 30 minutes to an hour. This will soften the beans and make them easier to blend.

2. Remove the skins: 

Drain the soaked beans and rub them between your palms to remove the skins. The skins will come off, leaving you with the whiter part of the peeled beans.

3. Blend the beans:

In a blender or food processor, blend the onions, and chilli peppers together until you get a smooth paste. You can add a little water to aid the blending process if needed but try not to make the mixture too watery.

4. Add seasoning:

Stir in the ground crayfish (if using) and seasoning into the blended mixture. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

5. Heat the oil:

In a deep pot or frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil for deep frying. The oil should be hot. Test the temperature by dropping a small amount of the bean mixture into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

6. Fry the akara: 

Using a deep spoon, scoop up a small portion of the bean mixture and carefully drop it into the hot oil.

Fry in batches, but be sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until the akara turns golden brown on all sides.

7. Drain the oil and serve

Once the akara is fried till golden brown, remove it from the oil and place it on a sieve to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all the bean mixture is used up.

akara is typically served as a snack on its own, but to enjoy it more you could add other accompaniments like pap (ogi), custard, or bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade akara!