How to Make Akara (Nigerian Bean Cakes) 🥘: Crispy, Fluffy & Irresistible

9jakitchenblog
April 11, 2025

Introduction

How to make Akara is one of the most searched queries in Nigerian cuisine, and for good reason. Akara, also known as bean cakes or bean fritters, is a delicious deep-fried snack made from peeled black-eyed peas blended with onions, peppers, and spices. Golden brown on the outside and fluffy inside, it’s a dish that connects generations, reminding many of Saturday mornings at home or roadside vendors frying hot, sizzling Akara balls. Whether paired with pap (ogi), bread, or just eaten alone, Akara is a cultural treasure you’ll love learning to make at home. If you’ve ever wondered step by step how to make Akara that’s crispy outside and fluffy inside, this guide will walk you through everything.

What is Akara?🥘

Akara is a beloved Nigerian breakfast food made from ground beans mixed with spices, then deep-fried into round, crispy fritters. It’s popular across West Africa, with variations in Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Cameroon. While it’s typically enjoyed in the mornings, it’s also a satisfying snack any time of day. Mastering how to make Akara means unlocking one of West Africa’s most iconic comfort foods.

Ingredients You’ll Need🍽️

2 cups black-eyed peas (peeled)
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 scotch bonnet peppers (or to taste)
1 red bell pepper (optional, for flavour & colour)
Salt to taste
½ teaspoon seasoning powder (optional)
Vegetable oil (for deep-frying)

Equipment Needed🛠️

Blender
Large bowl
Deep frying pan or pot
Slotted spoon
Ladle or scoop
Paper towels: (for draining excess oil)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Akara👩🏽‍🍳

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Begin by rinsing the black-eyed peas thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities.
In a bowl, cover the beans with plenty of water and let them soak for about 6-8 hours or overnight. This will make it easier to peel the skins off.
Rub them between your palms to remove the skins, then rinse until the skins are completely washed away.
This gives the Nigerian bean cakes their signature smooth texture.

Step 2: Blend into a Paste

After soaking, drain the beans and place them in a blender. Add a small amount of fresh water, just enough to facilitate blending.
Blend the beans into a smooth, thick paste. As you blend, you can stop periodically to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure an even consistency.
If you are using onions and chillies, add them to the blender and blend until well incorporated.
Avoid adding too much water—this is key for a fluffy bean fritters recipe.
This is a crucial stage in learning how to make Akara successfully.

Step 3: Season and Whisk

Transfer the blended bean mixture into a large bowl. If the mixture appears too thick, you can add a bit of water to achieve a fluffy consistency.
Season the mixture with salt, adjusting to your taste. Stir well to combine.
Whisk vigorously with a wooden spoon for 5–7 minutes.
This incorporates air, making your Akara fluffy and light.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or pot, add enough oil to submerge the akara.
Heat the oil over medium-high heat.
To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small spoonful of the batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

Step 5: Fry the Akara

Using a ladle or a scoop, take portions of the bean mixture and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this could lower the oil temperature and result in soggy akara.
Fry until the balls turn golden brown on one side, then gently flip them over to cook the other side. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side.
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the akara from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
At this point, you’ll see why knowing how to make Akara correctly ensures golden-brown perfection.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Serve the akara hot for the best flavour.
Enjoy it with a spicy dipping sauce or as a side dish with a meal.
You can eat it plain or add condiments like pepper sauce or ketchup for extra taste.
Pair with any of pap, custard, Agege bread or bread, etc.

. Your Akara is ready to enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Akara💡

Don’t over-blend: Too much water makes the batter runny and soggy.
Whisk for fluffiness: Incorporating air is the secret to light, fluffy Akara.
Maintain oil temperature: If the oil is too hot, Akara burns outside but stays raw inside.
Fresh beans are best: Avoid canned beans—they don’t yield the same texture.
Fry in small batches: Prevents overcrowding and ensures even frying.

These expert tips will help you master how to make Akara every single time.

Variations:

You can customise your akara by adding ingredients like bell peppers, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavour. People from different regions of the country use these ingredients based on their cultural preferences.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving, 2–3 pieces)📊

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	165 kcal
Carbohydrates	18 g
Protein	9 g
Fat	7 g
Fiber	6 g
Sodium	130 mg

Source: USDA FoodData Central – Black-eyed peas↗

Health Benefits

1. High in Protein: Akara is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily function. This makes it a good option for vegetarians and vegans.

2. Rich in Fiber: The beans used to make akara are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help prevent constipation. A high-fibre diet is also linked to reduced risk of heart disease↗.

3. Low in Glycemic Index: Foods with a low glycemic index help regulate blood sugar levels, making akara a suitable option for those managing diabetes.

4. Vitamins and Minerals: Akara provides important nutrients such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production and overall health.

5. Healthy Fats: When fried, akara retains some healthy fats from the oil used, particularly if prepared using healthier oils.

Akara is a nutritious snack that combines protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthful addition to a balanced diet. When enjoyed in moderation, it can be a tasty part of a meal or a satisfying snack option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)🙋🏽‍♀️

1. Can I make Akara without peeling beans?
👉It’s possible, but the texture won’t be smooth. Peeling beans is essential for authentic Nigerian bean cakes.

2. Can I bake Akara instead of frying?
👉Yes, you can try baking, but it won’t have the same crispy edges as traditional fried bean fritters.

3. What can I serve Akara with?
👉It pairs perfectly with pap (ogi), custard, bread (“Akara burger”), or garri soaked in water.

4. Can I store leftover Akara?
👉Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results. If you follow these storage tips, you’ll still enjoy your Akara as if freshly made—just another trick in learning how to make Akara at home.