Akara (bean fritters) recipe

Preparation time: Overnight, then 20 mins
Cooking time: 5mins (Makes at least 10 – 15 fritters)

Akaras are delicious fritters made from a puree of black eyed beans. They are found throughout West Africa and many variations exist, including banana and chick pea. Traditionally these bean akaras are served with a maize porridge, but are great eaten on their own, and make a tasty starter.

Preparation:

“Soak beans in a bowl with at least double the amount of water. Leave overnight or for at least 4 hours. Once beans have softened, rub beans between palms of hands to remove skins. Fill bowl with water, so that skins rise to the top, pour water away with skins into a sieve and continue peeling process until no skins remain.”

Method:

1. Roughly chop onion and add to blender with peeled beans and chilli.

2. Add water and blend until beans form a smooth paste.

3. Transfer paste to bowl and add salt and pepper to taste.

4. Fry spoonfuls of paste in hot sunflower oil until golden brown.

5. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.

6. Enjoy!