Accra Recipe – Saint Lucia's Delicious Snack

Accra is a beloved snack from Saint Lucia, made primarily with salted codfish, which is mixed into a flavorful batter and deep-fried until golden. This dish holds cultural significance as it is often enjoyed at family gatherings and festive occasions, showcasing the island's culinary heritage. Typically served as a tasty appetizer or snack, Accra is a must-try for anyone exploring Saint Lucian cuisine.

⚡ Easy 🔥 ~250 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 pound salted cod (saltfish), soaked overnight in water, rinsed, and drained
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
2 scallions, chopped
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for heat)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg
1/2 cup cold water (or as needed)
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Saltfish

After soaking overnight, rinse the saltfish and remove any bones and skin. Flake the fish into small pieces and set aside.

Make the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.

Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, scallions, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), and parsley. Mix well.

Add the Saltfish

Stir in the flaked saltfish into the flour mixture.

Prepare the Batter

In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix with the cold water. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms. If needed, add more water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Fry the Accra

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil; it should rise to the surface and sizzle.

Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Serve the Accra hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as an accompaniment to your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Accra?

Accra is a traditional savory fritter made from salted codfish, flour, and spices, then deep-fried to perfection.

Where does Accra come from?

Accra originates from Saint Lucia, where it is a popular snack enjoyed during social gatherings and celebrations.

What are the main ingredients in Accra?

The key ingredients in Accra include salted codfish, all-purpose flour, baking powder, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, onion, and garlic.

How long does Accra take to make?

Accra takes about 40-60 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Accra?

Accra is often served with a dipping sauce, such as hot pepper sauce, or enjoyed alongside a fresh salad for a complete snack.

Accra