Kulikuli Peanut Balls
Crunchy, golden, and irresistibly flavorful, Kulikuli Peanut Balls are a beloved West African snack that's simple to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Made from roasted peanuts ground into a smooth paste and seasoned with a hint of sugar, salt, and optional cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, these crispy balls are fried to perfection for the ultimate crunchy bite. Ideal as a protein-rich snack or accompaniment to other dishes, Kulikuli is both delicious and versatile. This traditional recipe, with its earthy flavor and satisfying texture, comes together in under an hour and can be stored for days, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying on the go. Whether you're reconnecting with your roots or exploring a new culinary tradition, Kulikuli Peanut Balls are a must-try!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams Raw peanuts
- 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 500 ml Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tablespoons Water
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by roasting the raw peanuts. Place the peanuts in a dry pan over medium heat and stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 2: Once cooled, remove the peanut skins. You can do this by placing the peanuts in a clean kitchen towel and rubbing them together. Discard the skins.
Step 3: Using a food processor or mortar and pestle, grind the roasted peanuts into a smooth paste. Be careful not to overprocess as the oil from the peanuts may separate.
Step 4: Transfer the peanut paste into a mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and water. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is pliable.
Step 5: Divide the peanut mixture into small portions and shape them into balls or patties, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the peanut mixture into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the surface.
Step 7: Carefully drop the shaped peanut balls or patties into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown, turning them occasionally for even frying.
Step 8: Once fried, remove the kulikuli balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 9: Allow the kulikuli to cool completely. They will harden as they cool, giving them their characteristic crunch.
Step 10: Serve as a snack or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
7141 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 746.3 g | 957% | |
| Saturated Fat | 102.9 g | 514% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2452 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 85.9 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 43.0 g | 154% | |
| Total Sugars | 27.8 g | ||
| Protein | 129.4 g | 259% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 466 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 23.0 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 3564 mg | 76% | |
*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.
