Akkara – West African fried bean balls

Ingredients for 2 servings:

• 1 cup black-eyed beans, pre-hulled
• 1 chili pepper(s)
• 1 onion(s)
• Salt
• oil

Instructions

Working time approx. 20 minutes; Rest time approx. 1 hour; Cooking/baking time approx. 10 minutes; Total time approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

Pre-peeled black-eyed beans are available at African or Asian grocery stores. Pour boiling water over the beans so that they are just covered, cover, and let them steep for about an hour. Finely chop the onion and chili pepper. Puree the beans in a blender or with a hand blender. The consistency should be such that the porridge does not run; it should be firm enough to be scooped up with a spoon. Then mix in the onion and chili, and season with salt. Take a teaspoon of the porridge and tap it into hot oil to form small balls. When browned to your liking, remove from the oil and drain. Can also be eaten cold. Tastes delicious with a sauce made from onions, chili, and tomato paste. Can be eaten with ciabatta bread.