Bring a taste of West Africa to your table with Binch Akara Bean Drops, a crispy, golden-brown delight made from tender black-eyed peas blended with aromatic onions, vibrant red bell peppers, and a hint of fiery Scotch bonnet pepper. These savory fritters are irresistibly light, fluffy, and packed with bold flavors, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. The recipe highlights simple, wholesome ingredients transformed through a traditional deep-frying technique that results in perfectly crunchy exteriors and soft, flavorful centers. Best served warm, these bean drops pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce or fresh bread for an authentic culinary experience. Easy to prepare and naturally vegetarian, Binch Akara Bean Drops are your next go-to dish for impressing guests or adding excitement to your everyday menu.
Step 1: Soak the dried black-eyed peas in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: Remove the skins from the black-eyed peas by rubbing them between your hands. Rinse repeatedly to remove the loosened skins until the peas are mostly white.
Step 3: In a blender or food processor, combine the skinned black-eyed peas, chopped onion, red bell pepper, Scotch bonnet (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Blend the mixture until smooth, adding a tablespoon of water at a time, if needed, to achieve a thick, paste-like consistency. Be careful not to make the mixture too watery.
Step 5: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping a small amount of the batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the top.
Step 6: Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop small portions of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
Step 7: Fry the akara for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter.
Step 9: Serve the Binch Akara Bean Drops warm with your choice of dipping sauce or alongside bread for a traditional touch.
Calories |
9535 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 951.1 g | 1219% | |
| Saturated Fat | 136.5 g | 682% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3654 mg | 159% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 253.2 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.8 g | 160% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.3 g | ||
| Protein | 95.8 g | 192% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 547 mg | 42% | |
| Iron | 17.9 mg | 99% | |
| Potassium | 4672 mg | 99% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.