Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of Egusi (ground melon seeds)
- 1 cup of black-eyed peas (soaked overnight)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 scallions (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon of ground crayfish
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1 cup of vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Frying pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, grind the Egusi until it becomes a fine powder. Transfer the Egusi powder to a large mixing bowl.
2. Drain the soaked black-eyed peas and blend them in a food processor or blender until they become a smooth paste. Add the black-eyed pea paste to the mixing bowl with the Egusi.
3. Add the chopped onions, scallions, salt, ground pepper, ground crayfish, and baking powder to the mixing bowl. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, scoop the Egusi and black-eyed pea mixture into the hot oil, forming small balls. Fry the Egusi Akara until golden brown on both sides.
6. Remove the Egusi Akara from the frying pan and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the Egusi Akara hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for frying
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 20 Egusi Akara balls
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per serving
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground crayfish can be substituted with ground shrimp or omitted altogether.
Variations:
- Add chopped peppers or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the Egusi Akara to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a spoon to shape the Egusi Akara balls for a uniform size.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover Egusi Akara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the Egusi Akara in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Egusi Akara on a platter with a dipping sauce in the center.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped scallions or parsley.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Jollof Rice or Fried Plantains.
Suggested side dishes:
- Jollof Rice
- Fried Plantains
- Coleslaw
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the Egusi Akara balls are falling apart in the oil, add more baking powder to the mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the black-eyed peas are soaked overnight to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Food history:
- Egusi Akara is a popular Nigerian snack that is often served during celebrations and gatherings.
Flavor profiles:
- Egusi Akara has a nutty and savory flavor with a crispy texture on the outside and a soft, fluffy texture on the inside.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve Egusi Akara as an appetizer or snack.
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Region: Nigerian