Cuisine : Bolitos de Mancara - Steps to make this

Bolitos de Mancara, or "Peanut Balls," are a delightful snack or dessert popular in West Africa, especially in Guinea-Bissau. Made from ground peanuts, these sweet and nutty treats have a chewy, dense texture and are often enjoyed as a quick, energy-boosting snack. Their simplicity, paired with the rich flavor of roasted peanuts, makes them a favorite treat that can be enjoyed anytime.

Preparation of Bolitos de Mancara

1. Roasting and Grinding Peanuts: Raw peanuts are first roasted until golden brown to enhance their flavor. Once cooled, they are ground into a fine or slightly chunky texture, depending on preference.

2. Mixing Ingredients: The ground peanuts are mixed with sugar, sometimes honey or condensed milk, and a bit of water to bind everything together. Some recipes include a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor.

3. Forming the Balls: The peanut mixture is shaped into small balls by rolling portions between the palms. This step is done carefully to ensure each ball is tightly packed and holds its shape.

4. Chilling (Optional): For a firmer texture, the peanut balls can be chilled in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving.

5. Serving: Bolitos de Mancara are typically enjoyed at room temperature and make for a satisfying, protein-rich snack. They can also be stored for several days in an airtight container.