Acarajé
The dish Acarajé, originating from the country of Brazil, is a savory treat that has a unique and complex flavor. It is made from an ingredients list that reads simply: black-eyed peas, onion, salt, and vegetable oil. However, don't let this fool you - Acarajé has an astonishingly authentic flavor that packs a punch.
First, the black-eyed peas are soaked overnight in salted water and then mashed. The mashed peas are then mixed with finely chopped onions and enough vegetable oil to form a paste. This paste is shaped into small balls before being fried in oil. Once golden brown and crispy, the Acarajé is ready for serving.
The flavor of Acarajé is unique, robust, and slightly spicy. On the outside, the crunchy texture is reminiscent of other fried treats such as falafel. On the inside, the paste is soft and slightly salty. The combination of these two textures and flavors creates an enticing and complex taste that can be enjoyed all year round.
Acarajé is often served with a selection of savory and sweet toppings such as vatapa (a creamy sauce made with shrimp, coconut milk, and cashews), pico de gallo, catupiry (a cheese spread similar to cream cheese), and others. These accompaniments not only add to the flavor of the Acarajé but also provide a visual contrast to its bright golden color.
The dish Acarajé is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich and nuanced flavors of Brazilian cuisine. Its flavors are like no other and you will be sure to be delighted when you try it.
Acarajé recipes
Amazing Acarajé recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Acarajé
Acarajé – a beloved snack that originated in North-eastern Brazil and is considered a staple in the region's cuisine. It is made from ground fermented black-eyed peas or white-eyed beans blended with onions, salt, and other seasonings, then deep-fried in a generous helping of dendê (palm oil).
The origin of this tantalizing treat can be traced back to the 1500s, when it was created by Oloris, a group of African women who were brought over to Brazil as slaves. At the time, their main source of protein was the black-eyed pea, which they used to make acarajé. Legend has it that they presented the dish to the king of Portugal during his visit to the region, making it part of Brazilian culinary history.
Since then, acarajé has been embraced by people of all backgrounds in both Brazil and beyond. While the core ingredients remain the same, the recipe has evolved over the centuries, with regional variations adding distinctive flavors such as malagueta pepper for an extra kick.
Today, acarajé is a favorite street food throughout the north and northeast of Brazil, often eaten as an appetizer before a meal or as a snack. It is also popular at festivals and celebrations as an energizing, savory bite. What's more, its high protein content makes it a nutritious and filling choice.
Acarajé may have taken over 500 years to reach its place on the Latin American dining table, but its longevity is evidence of its timeless appeal. Whether its served grilled, fried, or boiled, this savory dish is sure to satiate your cravings!
Types of Acarajé
Acarajé is a popular Brazilian dish, typically fried and served with a variety of accompaniments. It's a hugely versatile and delicious dish, perfect for a snack or light meal. There are various types of Acarajé, each with its own unique flavours and textures to enjoy.
A traditional Acarajé is simply made with mashed black-eyed peas, onion and salt, which are then deep-fried in vegetable oil. This tasty snack is popularly enjoyed accompanied by vatapá, a delicious fish paste made with coconut milk and spices. If you want something a bit lighter, why not try Acarajé de abóbora instead? This version swaps the black-eyed peas for sweet pumpkin and is a great vegetarian option.
If you're looking for something a little spicier, try Acarajé de pimenta. Mashed black-eyed peas, onion and plenty of fiery chilli make this a flavourful and punchy snack. For those who really crave something with an extra kick, Acarajé de malagueta is a must. Combining the ingredients of the original dish with the vivid hit of Tabasco sauce, this fiery snack is guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds!
Fried Acarajé isn't the only knock-out option on the menu. If you're after something a bit healthier, try Acarajé assado – a baked version of the classic dish. The black-eyed peas still form the base of this dish, but are mashed with added turmeric, oregano and garlic, giving it a lovely oomph of flavour. If you want to keep the calories low and nutritional content high, Acarajé assado is the way to go.
No matter what type of Acarajé you decide to try, you'll undoubtedly be salivating over its fantastic flavour. From the traditional fried golden-brown snack, to the light and healthy baked version and every type in between, Acarajé has something to satisfy every palate. So why not give one of these delectable dishes a try?