Burkina Faso: Boussan Touba - Savoury Bean Cakes

This recipe is traditional among the Bissa people of Burkina Faso. The Bissa are a Mande ethnic group from south-central Burkina Faso. Boussan touba is a nickname for the beancakes, and translates to "Bissa's ear."

I was skeptical about these beancakes, especially after the akara from Benin. But this time I used a regular chilli pepper rather than scotch bonnets, and that significantly reduced the heat to a level that I was able to eat.

The beancakes were actually fine. It was basically a bean burger, without the trimmings and the bun. I thought they could have actually done with more spice, and my partner definitely thought they were a bit boring, but I'm glad I managed to find something that worked out for the project. Paired with the French green beans, this made for a beany (but bland) dinner.

Boussan Touba - Savoury Beancakes
Serves 2 (makes about 6 beancakes)

Ingredients

• 400g can black eyed beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 carrots, grated
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Put all ingredients into a food processor and blend until they form a thick paste. 
2. Heat some oil over a medium heat in a frying pan. Place spoonfuls of mixture onto the pan in a patty shape, and cook for about 5 minutes each side, until golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and leave to drain oil on a piece of paper towel.
4. Serve hot.