Abará is a traditional Brazilian dish made from black-eyed peas, onions, garlic, and dendê oil, all wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection.

This dish has its roots in the Afro-Brazilian communities of Bahia, where it has been a beloved staple for generations, often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals.

To prepare Abará, start by soaking and peeling the black-eyed peas, then chop the onions and garlic. Blend the peas with the onions, garlic, and dendê oil to create a smooth mixture. Wrap this mixture in banana leaves and steam until cooked through.

Customization is key with Abará. You can add different spices or herbs to the mixture to suit your taste. Some variations include adding shrimp or other seafood for extra flavor.

In Brazil, Abará is typically served as a snack or appetizer, often accompanied by a spicy sauce or a side of vatapá, which is a creamy paste made from bread, shrimp, and coconut milk.

While Abará is delicious and flavorful, it is also relatively healthy, as it is steamed rather than fried. However, the use of dendê oil does add some calories, so it is best enjoyed in moderation.