Why Taking Akara And Pap For Breakfast Is A Smart Move

Saturday morning breakfast is a no bargain in Nigeria. There is usually work to be done, then again you have to eat smart to get the day going.

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Then the aspect of breakfast, here is where something delicious, satisfying, and easy to make comes in.

Today, let us talk about a perfect combo: Akara (bean fritters) and Pap (cornmeal porridge).

This recipe is a smart move for the family, or as a single individual.

The ingredients we need for akara:

1. 1 cup (250g) Black-eyed peas (Ewa oloyin)
2. 1 small onion, chopped
3. 1 habanero pepper (optional), scotch bonnet pepper works too, chopped (adjust based on spice preference)
4. 1 tablespoon crayfish (optional)
5. 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
6. Vegetable oil for frying or Palm oil to give a traditional feel.

Ingredients for pap:

1 cup (200g) Cornmeal (Semolina)
4 cups (1L) Water
Pinch of salt (or to taste)
Optional toppings: Milo powder, evaporated milk, sugar
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Easy steps to make it.

For the Akara:

1. Soak the beans: Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly and soak them in enough water for at least 8 hours, or overnight.

2. Grind the beans: Drain the soaked beans and grind them with the chopped onion, pepper (if using), and crayfish (if using) in a food processor or blender until smooth. You can add a little water to aid blending if needed.

3. Season and rest: Season the akara batter with salt to taste. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

4. Fry the akara: Heat enough vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Once hot, scoop tablespoons of the batter into the oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Drain and serve: Drain the fried akara on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with pap and your favourite toppings.

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For the Pap:

Bring water to a boil:

In a pot, bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
Whisk in cornmeal:

Slowly whisk in the cornmeal while constantly stirring to avoid lumps.

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pap thickens to your desired consistency.

Season and serve:

Season the pap with a pinch of salt (or to taste). Serve hot with Akara and your favourite toppings.

This is a smart breakfast move, it keeps your body prepared for the day’s work, and lights up your day.
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