Akara

Nigeria · Sub-Saharan Africa

Short description: This street snack turns bean batter into crisp-edged, fluffy fritters often eaten with pap, bread, porridge, or a peppery dip.
Ingredients: Peeled cowpeas are blended with onion, chile, and salt, then whipped and fried into golden fritters.
Cultural note: It is a morning staple and street-food item, sold hot from oil and often paired with soft starches that balance the crisp, savory fritters.
Common misconception: It is not a doughnut; the body comes from beans rather than wheat flour.

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