Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant West African nation of Benin, where bold flavors and rich traditions converge to create a tapestry of gastronomic delights. Among the treasures of Beninese cuisine lies the beloved Kuli-Kuli, a delectable snack revered for its irresistible crunch and aromatic blend of spices. Originating from the northern regions of Benin, Kuli-Kuli holds a special place in the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike.

In this recipe, we unveil the secrets to crafting authentic Beninese Kuli-Kuli, showcasing the essence of Benin's culinary heritage. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of preparation, join us as we delve into the intricacies of this beloved snack, offering a taste of Benin's cultural richness with every crunchy bite. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving for more of Benin's savory delights.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups raw peanuts
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for desired spiciness)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Roast the Peanuts:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2- Spread the raw peanuts evenly on a baking sheet.

3- Roast in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown, shaking the pan occasionally for even roasting.

4- Once roasted, remove from the oven and let them cool down.

Grind the Peanuts:

1- Once cooled, transfer the roasted peanuts to a food processor or blender.

2- Pulse until the peanuts are finely ground, but be careful not to over-process them; you want a slightly coarse texture for the kuli-kuli.

Prepare the Spice Mixture:

1- In a small bowl, mix together the ground ginger, cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt.

Make the Kuli-Kuli Dough:

1- Transfer the ground peanuts into a mixing bowl.

2- Gradually add the spice mixture to the ground peanuts, mixing well to ensure even distribution.

3- Add water gradually while mixing until the mixture comes together into a firm dough. The dough should be pliable but not too sticky.

Shape the Kuli-Kuli:

1- Take a small portion of the dough and roll it between your palms to form a small cylinder or ball. You can shape them into any desired size, but traditionally they are small bite-sized pieces.

2- Continue shaping the dough until all of it is used up.

Fry the Kuli-Kuli:

1- In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

2- Carefully drop the shaped kuli-kuli into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.

3- Fry the kuli-kuli until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally for even cooking.

4- Once done, remove the fried kuli-kuli from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve and Enjoy:

1- Allow the kuli-kuli to cool completely before serving.

2- Serve as a snack on its own or alongside your favorite beverages.

3- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Benin with these homemade kuli-kuli snacks, perfect for any occasion or as a delightful treat anytime you crave something savory and spicy.

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Beninese Kuli-Kuli recipe:

Raw Peanuts (2 cups):

• Calories: 1070 kcal
• Protein: 46g
• Fat: 94g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 10mg

benefits:

• Rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• High in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
• Contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, niacin, folate, and magnesium, which contribute to overall health and wellbeing.

Ground Ginger (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 1.3g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Sugars: 0.1g
• Sodium: 0.5mg

benefits:

• Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of various conditions.
• Supports digestion and helps relieve nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Contains antioxidants that may boost the immune system and protect against oxidative stress.

Cayenne Pepper (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Protein: 0.3g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 1.2g
• Fiber: 0.6g
• Sugars: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1.5mg

benefits:

• Contains capsaicin, which has been shown to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.
• May aid in pain relief and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Supports heart health by improving circulation and lowering blood pressure.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Protein: 0.3g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 1.2g
• Fiber: 0.7g
• Sugars: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1.2mg

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and carotenoids, which help combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Contains capsaicinoids, similar to cayenne pepper, which may aid in weight management and metabolism.
• Provides a vibrant color and flavor to dishes without adding significant calories or fat.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Sodium: 2300mg

benefits:

• Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance and nerve function in the body.
• Helps regulate blood pressure and muscle contractions.
• Used in moderation, salt adds flavor to dishes and enhances overall taste perception.

Water (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Vital for hydration and proper bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation.
• Supports healthy skin, kidneys, and overall cellular function.
• Helps flush out toxins and waste products from the body.

Vegetable Oil for Frying:

• The nutritional values will vary based on the type of oil used and the amount absorbed during frying. Typically, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil contains approximately 120 calories and 14g of fat.

benefits:

• Provides a source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which support heart health when used in moderation.
• Adds a crispy texture to foods when used for frying.
• Enhances the flavor of dishes without overpowering other ingredients.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and variations in preparation methods.