Acarajé Black Eyed Pea Fritters
Looking to bring a taste of Brazil into your kitchen? Acarajé, a beloved Brazilian street food, is a delightful and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. These crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside fritters are made with black-eyed peas and traditionally served with a spicy shrimp and herb filling. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Brazilian cuisine and learn how to make these delicious Acarajé Black-Eyed Pea Fritters.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Soak the black-eyed peas in water overnight or for at least 6 hours to soften them.
2. Drain the peas and transfer them to a food processor. Pulse until you get a coarse paste-like texture.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, salt, and black pepper to the processor. Blend until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it rest for 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
5. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to deep fry the fritters.
6. Using wet hands, take a small amount of the mixture and form it into a small ball, then gently flatten it into a disk shape.
7. Carefully slide the fritters into the hot oil, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
8. Fry the fritters until they are deep golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
10. Serve the Acarajé fritters warm with a traditional filling of spicy shrimp and herbs, or get creative with your own favorite toppings.
In Brazil, Acarajé is often sold by street vendors, and each vendor may have their unique twist on the recipe. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this dish your own. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or serve them as a main course, these Acarajé Black-Eyed Pea Fritters are a fantastic way to explore the rich flavors of Brazilian cuisine in the comfort of your home.
Enjoy the crispy goodness of these fritters and let the delectable flavors transport you to the bustling streets of Brazil. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic Brazilian recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!
