If you love discovering new and delicious foods, then you have to try Acarajé! These fried black-eyed pea fritters are a tasty treat that is deeply rooted in the culture of Brazil. Originally brought to Brazil by African slaves, Acarajé has become a popular street food, especially in the city of Salvador. It’s not just a snack; it’s a symbol of Brazilian heritage and flavor!
Acarajé is often filled with spicy shrimp paste and served with a side of vinaigrette sauce, making it a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Its popularity comes from its unique taste, the crispy exterior, and the soft, flavorful inside. If you’re looking to impress your friends with a fantastic dish or just want to try something new, this recipe is definitely for you!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Black-eyed peas | 2 cups |
| Onion | 1, diced |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Palm oil (or vegetable oil) | For frying |
| Cooked shrimp | 1 cup, mixed with spices |
| Hot sauce | To taste |
| Vinaigrette sauce (optional) | 1 cup |
Note: If you can’t find black-eyed peas, you can use chickpeas as an alternative!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the Peas: Start by soaking the black-eyed peas in water overnight. This helps soften them and makes them easier to blend.
- Prepare the Batter: Drain and rinse the soaked peas. Blend them in a food processor with the diced onion, salt, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry.
- Fry the Fritters: Carefully spoon the batter into the hot oil, forming small patties. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, remove the fritters and allow them to drain on paper towels to remove extra oil.
- Serve: Split the fritters open and fill them with cooked shrimp and a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also add vinaigrette sauce for extra flavor!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 12g | 18% |
| Sodium | 400mg | 17% |
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure the oil is hot enough; if it’s not, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- You can customize your Acarajé by adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the batter for an extra kick!
- When filling the fritters, you can also add vegetables like lettuce or tomatoes for a fresh crunch.
- To avoid the fritters breaking apart in the oil, make sure your batter is not too runny.
FAQs
What is Acarajé made of?
Acarajé is made from black-eyed peas, which are soaked, mashed, and then fried until crispy. They are usually filled with shrimp and served with a spicy sauce.
Can I make Acarajé without shrimp?
Yes! You can enjoy Acarajé without shrimp. Try using other fillings like vegetables or just enjoy them plain!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes!
Is Acarajé spicy?
Acarajé can be spicy, especially with the addition of hot sauce. You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of sauce you add.
Can I freeze Acarajé?
Yes, you can freeze Acarajé! Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to a month.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Traditionally, palm oil is used for frying Acarajé, but you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if needed.
Do I have to soak the peas overnight?
Soaking the peas overnight helps them become soft for blending. If you’re short on time, you can soak them for at least 4 hours.
Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes! If you’re using canned black-eyed peas, just rinse and drain them, then proceed with blending.
What can I serve with Acarajé?
Acarajé is often served with a side of vinaigrette sauce or a salad. It can also be enjoyed with rice or other sides!
Is Acarajé a healthy snack?
While Acarajé is tasty, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation due to its frying process. However, it’s a good source of protein and fiber!
How long does it take to make Acarajé?
Making Acarajé takes about 1-2 hours, including soaking the peas and frying the fritters.
Now that you know how to make delicious Acarajé, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy this tasty Brazilian treat with friends and family. Happy cooking!
