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.

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.

READ ALSO: 3 Delectable Nigerian Breakfasts For A Perfect Sunday Morning

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

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.

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.