Puff puff, also known as “akara” or “beans balls”, is a popular West African snack or street food. It’s a deep-fried dough made from black-eyed pea (cowpea) or groundnut (peanut) flour, water, and seasonings like salt and baking powder. The result is a light, crispy, and soft interior, with a slightly sweet flavor.
Here’s a simple recipe to make Puff Puff:
Ingredients:
1. 2 cups (250g) black-eyed pea flour or groundnut flour
2. 1 cup warm water
3. 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
5. Vegetable oil for deep frying
6. Optional: Sugar and chili pepper (for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, gradually add warm water to the flour while stirring until you achieve a smooth, slightly lumpy consistency – similar to pancake batter.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the baking powder and salt (and sugar if desired). If using chili pepper, add it now for an extra kick.
Let it Rest: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the water fully, making the puff puffs lighter when fried.
Shape into Balls: After resting, the mixture should be thick enough to form into small balls. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and shape the dough into 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) balls.
Deep Fry: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Once hot, gently drop the puff puff balls into the oil, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding which can lower the oil temperature.
Fry Until Golden: Fry the balls until they’re evenly golden brown, turning them occasionally for an even color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Drain and Serve: Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the puff puffs from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. They’re best served warm, often with a spicy sauce or stew for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade Puff Puff!
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Image model: ComicBookXL
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