National Dish Ghana: Bean Cakes (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Bean Cakes, a crisp and savoury little treat from the heart of West Africa. Made from spiced, puréed beans and fried until golden, these moreish bites deliver big flavour and plenty of plant-based protein in every mouthful. Whether you serve them as a quick snack, a party nibble or part of a festive spread, they bring the warm, homely tastes of Ghana straight to your kitchen. Simple to make and hard to resist, they are a wonderful introduction to Ghanaian home cooking.
About Bean Cakes
Bean Cakes are a traditional speciality from Ghana, celebrated for their distinctive taste and satisfyingly crisp texture. These small delights are made from puréed beans and offer a brilliant way to experience the flavours of Ghanaian cooking. They are not only a popular snack but also an excellent source of protein, which makes them a firm favourite with vegetarians and vegans alike. The sheer versatility of bean cakes makes them an ideal choice for any occasion, whether as a casual bite or as part of a celebratory menu. Fans of fried bean treats will also enjoy the closely related Akara and Koose.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200g dried beans (such as black beans or pinto beans)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1–2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for bean cakes are easy to find in most supermarkets and African or Asian grocery shops. You will also come across dried beans in several varieties, which gives you the freedom to tailor the flavour to your own liking. When buying the spices, look for good-quality products, as these have a real impact on the aroma of your finished bean cakes. If you prefer fresher produce, it is well worth visiting a local market, where the vegetables and spices are often fresher and cheaper.
Preparing the dish
Begin by preparing the beans, soaking them overnight in plenty of water. This helps break down the starches and shortens the cooking time. The next day, rinse the beans thoroughly and simmer them in fresh water until soft. While they cook, you can also sauté the onions and garlic in a pan with a little oil to deepen the flavour of the mixture.
Step-by-step instructions
- Tip the soaked and cooked beans into a bowl and blend with a stick blender until you have a smooth purée.
- Add the sautéed onions and garlic and mix well.
- Season the mixture with paprika and salt to taste.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan until it is hot.
- Using a tablespoon, drop small portions of the bean mixture into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Once fried, lift the bean cakes out and drain them on kitchen paper.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Bean cakes are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, since they are made mostly from beans. Just make sure that any spices and oils you use are gluten-free too, especially if you are sensitive to gluten. This tasty treat is therefore ideal for anyone with a gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance. Enjoy this wholesome, nourishing dish without having to worry about any unwelcome ingredients.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Bean cakes are a superb snack for vegans and vegetarians, delivering a generous amount of protein once cooked. To boost the nutritional value even further, you can work extra vegetables or pulses into the mixture. Serve the bean cakes with a tasty plant-based dip to round things off. This not only lifts the flavour but also makes for a more complete meal.
More tips and tricks
One key to the perfect flavour is seasoning the beans generously. Experiment with different spices such as cumin or chilli to give the dish your own personal touch. Fresh herbs like coriander or parsley also add a lovely lift of flavour. Make sure the oil is hot enough before you start frying, as this is what gives the bean cakes their wonderfully crisp texture.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The best thing about bean cakes is how adaptable they are. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your palate, for example by adding extra vegetables such as carrots or spinach. For a spicier version, work a little chilli or pepper into the mixture. This lets you tailor the bean cakes to the preferences of your guests or family and creates all sorts of unique flavour combinations.
Ingredient substitutions
If some ingredients are not to hand or you would rather leave them out, there are plenty of alternatives for making bean cakes. In place of onions, for instance, you could use shallots or spring onions for a milder note. The vegetable oil can also be swapped for coconut oil, which lends a distinctive flavour. Experiment freely to create your very own version, much as you might when making Bambara Beans Porridge.
Drink pairing ideas
To round off your bean cake experience, it is well worth choosing a drink to serve alongside. Homemade lemonade or a refreshing iced tea make perfect partners that support the flavours of these bean bites. If you fancy something alcoholic, a mild, fruity beer or a light white wine would also work nicely. A tangy hibiscus drink such as Sobolo is another cooling option that complements the crisp morsels beautifully.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation is an important part of the enjoyment. Serve the bean cakes on an attractive plate or in a rustic bowl to please the eye. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to add a fresh note. Offer them with a selection of dips or sauces to create an appetising spread and to vary the tasting experience.
A bit of history
Bean cakes have their roots in traditional Ghanaian cooking and stand as a symbol of the country’s cultural diversity. This delicacy is often served at festive gatherings and family celebrations, and it enjoys great popularity right across the region. The preparation and enjoyment of bean cakes are deeply woven into the fabric of Ghanaian cuisine, reflecting the high regard for beans and pulses that play such a central role in the Ghanaian diet. The blend of a long tradition and delicious flavours makes them a truly special treat.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Bean Cakes
Bean cakes are more than just a snack — they are a genuine piece of Ghana on your plate. With their crisp texture and unique flavour, they are ideal for any occasion. This traditional delicacy is easy to prepare and offers no end of ways to make it your own. Give this recipe a go and discover the wonderful flavours of Ghanaian cooking!
