Akara Waffles: A Crispy, Savoury Twist on a Nigerian Traditional

by Ali Yerima · September 27, 2026 · 1 comment

This is to incorporate air into the batter.

Heat up the waffle iron and brush including some oil.

Scoop 1/3 cup of batter into the waffle iron. End finding is a delicious and crispy Akara that satisfies your cravings and considers your waistline as well.

Why Akara Waffles?

You get that classic akara taste – beans, onions, pepper in a new fun shape.
The waffle press gives more surface area for crispy edges and a beautiful pattern.
They’re fun, original, great for breakfast, snacks, or serving at gatherings.
They are lower oily than traditional intense fried akara

akara in waffle iron

Ingredient	Quantity
Peeled black-eyed peas (or unpeeled brown beans)	2 cups (approx. Leave to cook until crispy (if you have an automatic waffle iron, you might have to leave the batter in for at least 3 established. Puree the mixture to a smooth thick paste Pour the pureed beans into a bowl. Add in salt, pepper, chopped onion, egg(if applying) and salt. The batter should cook for at least 4 minutes) Repeat step 4 until all the batter is cooked Support Akara waffle alone or with bread, garri, ogi(pap) or fried yam. Whether deep-fried, pan-fried, or served as acarajé, akara has extended been a staple in Nigerian homes and street food culture. Even though deep fried akara will consistently win, we all recognize it’s not always an possibility for a host of reasons including health reasons. There’s something special about akara, the fluffy bean fritters, crispy on the outside, soft and flavourful on the inside. So what if we turned akara into waffles? we take all of the flavour without all the oil. 400 g)
Onion	½ medium, chopped finely
Fresh hot pepper (e.g. ata rodo / Scotch bonnet)	1 modest, chopped (adjust to taste)
Salt	to taste
Water (for soaking & blending)	enough to soak + blend smoothly
Optional: Egg	2 sizeable (for binding / extra softness)
Optional: Baking powder	½ tsp (for a lighter waffle)
Oil or non-stick spray	for waffle iron

Directions

Start by soaking beans in water for 2-4 hrs (this step helps to soften the beans)
Combine the beans with 1/4 cup water (only) in a blender. Mix for 5 minutes with a whisk or mixer. Enjoy!!

waffle iron akara recipe