Kuli Kuli

Kuli Kuli

Kuli Kuli (KOO-lee KOO-lee)

Fried Groundnut Cakes

Prep Time 30 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
8
🔥 Calories 320 kcal

Crunchy, savory snack cakes made from ground roasted peanuts with ginger, onion, and spices. The paste is shaped into sticks or balls, then deep-fried until golden and crisp.

Nutrition & Info

310 kcal per serving
Protein 14.0g
Carbs 12.0g
Fat 24.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ peanuts

Equipment Needed

mortar and pestle or food processor deep fryer or pot paper towels

Presentation Guide

Vessel: paper cone or basket

Accompaniments: gari, roasted yam

Instructions

  1. 1

    Grind roasted peanuts in a mortar or food processor to a smooth paste.

  2. 2

    Knead the paste to extract excess oil, squeezing out liquid.

  3. 3

    Mix in ginger, grated onion, cayenne, and salt.

  4. 4

    Shape into small sticks or balls.

  5. 5

    Deep fry in batches at 350F until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

💡

Did You Know?

Kuli kuli vendors are a fixture at Beninese markets and bus stations, selling the crunchy snacks in small paper cones for travelers.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • mortar and pestle or food processor
  • deep fryer or pot
  • paper towels

Accompaniments

gari, roasted yam

The Story Behind Kuli Kuli

Kuli kuli originated among the Hausa people and spread throughout West Africa via trade routes. In Benin, it became an essential market snack and protein source, particularly in the northern regions. The technique of extracting oil from the peanut paste before frying gives kuli kuli its distinctive dry, crunchy texture.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed anytime snack 📜 Origins: Pre-colonial, Hausa trade era

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