Brazilian recipe
Authentic Acarajé: traditional recipe for crispy black-eyed pea fritters with shrimp (Acarajé)
Acarajé is a Brazilian delicacy featuring a crispy shell and fluffy center, stuffed with savory vatapá and dried shrimp. A practical and flavorful recipe.
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Ingredients
2 medium onions, peeled and chopped
500 ml vegetable oil for deep frying
Salt to taste
500 g raw black-eyed peas, high quality preferred
1 small onion with skin, to season the oil
1 small onion with skin, to season the oil
500 ml azeite de dendê (palm oil), for authentic flavor and color
150 g dried shrimp, cleaned and peeled
500 ml vegetable oil for deep frying
Salt to taste
500 g raw black-eyed peas, high quality preferred
1 small onion with skin, to season the oil
1 small onion with skin, to season the oil
500 ml azeite de dendê (palm oil), for authentic flavor and color
150 g dried shrimp, cleaned and peeled
Where to find ingredients
You can find black-eyed peas in the dry goods section of local markets or supermarkets. For the authentic experience, look for 'azeite de dendê' (palm oil) and 'camarão seco' (dried shrimp) in specialty grocery stores or international food aisles. As a substitute for dried shrimp, you may use fresh sautéed shrimp, though the flavor profile will differ from the traditional dish.
Preparation method
- Soak the black-eyed peas in water for at least 12 hours to soften them for processing.
- Drain the beans and remove the hulls by rubbing them between your hands or using a fine mesh sieve under running water until most skins are gone.
- After removing the skins, rinse the beans well under running water and set aside.
- In a food processor, pulse the beans until a homogeneous dough forms, being careful not to turn it into a puree.
- Work in batches if necessary.
- Transfer the batter to a large bowl.
- Add the chopped onions and salt.
- Mix well.
- Using a wooden spoon, beat the batter vigorously for about 10 minutes until it triples in volume and becomes airy.
- This step is essential for the final texture of the acarajé.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan.
- Add the onion with skin to the oil to infuse flavor.
- Using two spoons, shape portions of the dough into balls approximately 8 cm in diameter.
- Fry the fritters in hot oil for about 3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Remove the acarajés with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Slice the fritters in half and fill them with vatapá.
- Place the dried shrimp inside and close the acarajé.
- Serve hot, accompanied by sauces or salads if desired.
Observations
Acarajé is a culinary specialty of Brazil, widely cherished in the state of Bahia. It is prepared using crushed black-eyed peas, deep-fried until golden and crispy. This recipe balances the soft texture of the beans with the distinct taste of dried shrimp and vatapá, making it an irresistible choice for gatherings, snacks, or special meals. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare this delicacy at home using accessible ingredients and traditional techniques.
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