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Acarajé with vinaigrette, decorated with fresh cilantro
Spicy vegan Acarajé with tomato vinaigrette

Brazilian Acarajé (Black-Eyed Pea Fritters) with Fresh Vinaigrette

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes
Acarajé is an iconic African-rooted dish from Brazil's Bahia state. Its essence is a dough made from black-eyed peas, beaten until airy, then fried in palm oil (dendê). The result is a fritter crispy outside and soft inside, filled with fresh, tangy vinaigrette (tomato salsa).
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
⌛ Total Time 8 hrs 35 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 300 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Brazilian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Blender: For pureeing beans.
  • Wooden Spoon: For aerating the dough.

Instructions

1 ✓

Soak beans in water overnight (min. 8 hours), then rub off skins if you bought unpeeled ones.

Tip: Removing skins is essential for a creamy, white interior.
2 ✓

Blend raw, soaked beans with onion, garlic, chili, and salt into a smooth paste.

Tip: Don't add much water, or it will be runny. The beans' own moisture should suffice.
3 ✓

Pour into a bowl and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon for 5-10 minutes until dough is fluffy and light.

Tip: This mechanical aeration replaces baking powder.
4 ✓

Form dumplings with two spoons and fry in hot oil until golden brown.

Tip: Hot oil forms an instant crust, protecting the airy interior.
5 ✓

Mix tomatoes, cilantro, lime, and olive oil. Cut fried fritters in half and fill with salsa.

Tip: The tangy filling counterbalances the fried dough's richness.

Recipe FAQ

Why did the Acarajé turn out hard?
You didn't beat the dough long enough. Air bubbles make it light, like a sponge cake.

Ingredients

  • 9 oz Dried Black-Eyed Peas (skinned)
  • 1 whole Onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 1 whole Red Chili
  • 4 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 3/4 cup Cornmeal (if needed for thickening)
  • 1 pinch Salt & Pepper
  • 2 cups Oil for frying (traditionally Palm Oil, or Vegetable)
  • 2 whole Tomatoes (diced)
  • 1 whole Lime (juiced)
  • 1 sprig Fresh Cilantro