Akara - African Bean Fritters
Crispy deep-fried bean fritters made from blended beans and spices, whipped until airy and fried until golden and delicious.
Updated : 02 April, 2026
Easy
More than 1 hour.
Ingredients
1.5 cup
Black eyed peas
0.5
Red onion
2
Scotch Bonnet pepper
3
Broth cube
to taste
Salt
as needed
Vegetable oil
Table
Table of volume measurements:
- teaspoon - 5 ml
- dessert spoon - 10 ml
- tablespoon - 20 ml
- glass - 200 ml
Preparation
Step 1
Begin by removing the skins from the beans. Soak the beans in water for about 3 minutes, until the skins start to wrinkle slightly. Transfer the beans to a food processor, adding just enough water to cover them. Pulse the processor 5-6 times to loosen the skins from the beans. Be cautious, as some water may splash during this step.
Step 2
Pour the mixture into a bowl and rinse several times, allowing the skins to float to the surface. Drain off the skins with the water after each rinse. Since the skins are lighter, they should separate easily. Continue rinsing until most of the skins are removed.
Step 3
Once cleaned, soak the beans in fresh water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4
After soaking, drain and rinse the beans once more.
Step 5
Grind the scotch bonnet peppers into a rough paste using a mortar and pestle or food processor, then set aside.
Step 6
Blend the beans together with the onions and ½ cup of water until completely smooth. The mixture should have a consistency similar to a thick muffin batter.
Step 7
Heat oil in a deep pan to 375°F (about 190°C) while you prepare the batter.
Step 8
Add the salt, bouillon, and ground scotch bonnet peppers to the batter. Mix continuously for about 5 minutes to incorporate air, which helps make the fritters light and fluffy.
Step 9
Using a large spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, turning as needed, until the fritters are golden brown all over.
Step 10
Remove from the oil and place on a colander or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 11
Serve hot and fresh.
Author note
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