Black Eye Pea Fritter (Bajiya)

This is a nice appetizer recipe. The longest part is getting the black eye peas ready, after that it goes very quickly.

Cook time about 30-35 minutes
Makes about 12 Bajiyas


1 Cup of Black eye Peas
2 Cloves of Garlic
2 Teaspoons of Cilantro
1/4 of a large Jalapeno Pepper
1/2 Teaspoon of Lemon Juice
1 Teaspoon of Salt
Water may be needed
1 bowl of Ice Water




Boil water and add the peas to the water and boil for 10 minutes. Then scoop out and put into the ice water and move around for a few minutes, the skins should start to fall off. Take a handful and peel any remaining skins. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Another alternative is boiling for 10 minutes then removing the pan from the heat and letting the peas soak for 1 hour.




In a blender add all the ingredients and blend well. If the mixture is clumpy and too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time and blend until a smooth paste is formed.



Heat oil in a pan and roll the mixture in your hands to form a ball and slightly press down. Drop it into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. If the paste starts to stick to your hands, slightly oil your hands before rolling. Drain on a paper towel. Serve warm.