"Brazilian street food often means starchy, fried goodness. Acaraje with vatapa is just that, and it also illustrates how West African cuisine had a substantial influence on the development of food traditions in Brazil. Acaraje (known as akara in West African cuisines) is a fritter of mashed black eyed peas and onions, deep-fried and filled with vatapa, a paste made from coconut milk, shrimp, pao (Brazilian bread), palm oil, and peanuts. This stuffed fritter is traditionally served with a hot pepper sauce, so proceed with caution. Nibble Kitchen is an initiative in Somerville that highlights the community’s diverse culinary scene. On Thursdays, the kitchen features a menu of Brazilian food, and its take on acaraje with vatapa steals the show. Nibble Kitchen is open for takeout." - Tommy Ranucci
