Acarajé Cítrico
Introduction to Acarajé Cítrico
Acarajé is a beloved street food in Brazil, particularly in the northeastern state of Bahia. A dish deeply rooted in West African traditions brought over by enslaved Africans, it holds cultural and religious significance in the Afro-Brazilian communities. Traditionally, acarajé is made from peeled black-eyed peas formed into a ball and deep-fried in dendê oil, giving it a rich color and unique flavor. This culinary journey will introduce you to Acarajé Cítrico, a refreshing twist on the classic, incorporating zesty citrus elements for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
- Black-eyed peas - 2 cups
- Onion - 1, chopped
- Dendê oil - 2 cups
- Lime - 1, zested and juiced
- Lemon - 1, zested and juiced
- Orange - 1, zested and juiced
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon
- Shrimp - 1 cup, small, peeled, and deveined
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Cilantro - 1 bunch, chopped
- Tomato - 1, diced
Preparation
Preparing the Black-Eyed Peas
Begin by rinsing the black-eyed peas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Soak them in water overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften. Once soaked, peel the peas by rubbing them between your hands to remove the skins. This can be a labor-intensive process but is crucial for the texture of the acarajé.
Marinating the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with half of the lime, lemon, and orange juices, the garlic, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cooking Process
Making the Acarajé Batter
Using a food processor, blend the peeled black-eyed peas with the chopped onion, remaining citrus juices, zests, cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. This batter forms the base of your Acarajé Cítrico.
Frying the Acarajé
In a large pan, heat the dendê oil over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, shaping them into small balls. Fry until golden brown and crispy on the outside. This should take about 4-6 minutes per side. Use a cooking timer for precision.
Cooking the Citrus-Infused Shrimp
In another pan, heat some oil and add the marinated shrimp. Cook until they turn pink and firm, about 3-5 minutes. Combine with the diced tomato and chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant topping.
How to Enjoy Acarajé Cítrico
Serve the fried acarajé topped with the citrus-infused shrimp mixture. The acidity from the citrus balances the richness of the dendê oil-fried acarajé, creating a refreshing yet indulgent experience. Enjoy while warm, perhaps with a side of salad or simply on its own as a delightful appetizer or main course.