Acarajé Tradicional
Introduction to Acarajé
Acarajé is a traditional street food from the northeastern region of Brazil, particularly Bahia. This delicious treat is a deep-fried ball made from black-eyed peas, filled with shrimp and a rich paste. The dish traces back to West African cuisine, where it was often made for spiritual and religious gatherings. Over time, it became an integral part of Bahian cuisine, reflecting a blend of African and Brazilian influences.
Ingredients
- Black-eyed peas - 2 cups
- Onion - 1 medium
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Palm oil - 1 cup
- Shrimp (small, fresh or dried) - 1 cup
- Coconut milk - 1/2 cup
- Garlic - 4 cloves
- Ginger - 1 tablespoon grated
- Dendê oil - 1 tablespoon
- Chili peppers (to taste) - typically 2-3
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Black-eyed Peas
Start by soaking the black-eyed peas in water overnight. This softens them and makes the peeling process easier. After soaking, rub them between your hands under running water to remove the skins, which will float and can be easily rinsed away.
Step 2: Making the Acarajé Dough
Blend the peeled black-eyed peas with a onion and salt until smooth. The consistency should be thick and creamy, similar to hummus. Let the mixture rest for at least an hour, which helps bind the dough.
Step 3: Shrimp Filling
In a saucepan, heat some palm oil and fry the shrimp with crushed garlic, grated ginger, and minced chili peppers. Add coconut milk and stir to create a rich, creamy paste.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Frying the Acarajé
Using two spoons, shape the dough into balls. Heat a frying pan with palm oil to about 350°F. Drop the dough balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, approximately 5-6 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Assembling the Acarajé
Once fried, cut the acarajé balls open and fill them generously with the shrimp mixture. You can add additional accompaniments like a hot sauce or salad if desired.
Remember to monitor the time spent on frying by setting a cooking timer to avoid overcooking.
Enjoying Your Acarajé
Acarajé is best enjoyed fresh and hot, ideally served with a chilled drink like coconut water or a local Brazilian soda. It makes for a perfect snack or starter during festive gatherings. Traditionally, it is also a symbol of Afro-Brazilian culture and is often shared during cultural events and religious ceremonies in Bahia.
With its crispy exterior and spicy, savory filling, acarajé is a true culinary delight that embodies the rich cultural tapestry of Brazil.