High Protein Nigerian Akara (Bean Fritters)

Crispy on the outside and irresistibly fluffy on the inside, these High Protein Nigerian Akara (Bean Fritters) are a delicious twist on a beloved West African classic. Made from protein-packed black-eyed peas, vibrant red bell peppers, fiery scotch bonnet peppers, and aromatic ginger and garlic, these golden fritters are bursting with bold, authentic flavors. Whether you're soaking up the morning sun with a warm breakfast or whipping up a savory snack, this recipe is as nutritious as it is satisfying. Perfectly spiced and fried to golden perfection, akara pairs wonderfully with a spicy dipping sauce, soft bread, or creamy custard. Easy to make and packed with plant-based protein, these bean fritters are a must-try for fans of Nigerian cuisine or anyone looking for a flavorful vegetarian dish!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 500 grams dried black-eyed peas
• 2 medium red bell peppers
• 1 medium onion
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 inch ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 500 ml vegetable oil
• 50 ml water

Directions

Step 1

Begin by rinsing the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris.

Step 2

Soak the black-eyed peas in a large bowl of hot water for about 30 minutes until the skins start to peel off.

Step 3

Drain the peas and place them in a clean bowl. Rub them between your hands to remove the skins. Rinse and repeat until all skins are removed, leaving clean white peas.

Step 4

In a blender or food processor, combine the peeled black-eyed peas with roughly chopped red bell peppers, onion, scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth, adding the 50 ml of water gradually to achieve a thick batter consistency.

Step 5

Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl. Stir in the salt, ground black pepper, and baking powder to combine well.

Step 6

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat until hot.

Step 7

Using a tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry each batch for about 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8

Remove the akara with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 9

Repeat the frying process until all the batter is used up.

Step 10

Serve warm with a spicy dipping sauce or as part of a hearty breakfast with pap, bread, or custard.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1463.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4794.1

Total Fat 478.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 68.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 298.2g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3928.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 135.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.4g	0%
Total Sugars 32.0g
Protein 41.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 190.6mg	0%
Iron 14.0mg	0%
Potassium 2211.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 85.9%

Protein: 3.3%

Carbs: 10.8%