Conkies - Barbados

Barbados - Conkies (Similar to Ducanna in St. Vincent)

For many Bajans, Conkies are a delicious treat! I have made Conkies and I must attest that it is a wonderful delight to have.  The original idea of when Conkies  are to be eaten came about during the old British colonial celebration of Guy Fawkes Day on the 5th of November.  They are still made traditionally during the month of November to celebrate the Independence of Barbados.  The simple instructions and recipe below will teach our viewers how to make this favourite dish from the beautiful island of Barbados.

Barbados conkies

Recipe

• 2 cups corn flour
• 1/2 cup plain flour
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 3/4 lb grated pumpkin
• 1/2 lb grated sweet potato
• 6 oz melted butter or margarine
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 3/4 lb brown sugar
• 4 ozs. raisins
• 1 tsp spice
• 1 tsp almond essence
• 1 tsp grated nutmeg
• 1 tsp salt
• Fresh Banana leaves

Mix the coconut, pumpkin, sweet potato, sugar, spices, raisins, flour, corn flour, and salt together in a large bowl.

Add the beaten egg, melted butter/margarine, and milk. Mix thoroughly by hand to combine. You should have a thick mixture that drops slowly from a spoon. Add more flour if the mixture is not thick enough; add a bit more milk if it is too thick.

Fresh green Banana leaves are traditionally used to wrap the conkie mixture. If you have these, strip leaves from stalk with a sharp knife then briefly singe them over an open flame to make them more pliable. Cut the leaves into individual 8" squares.

Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mixture into the centre of the banana leaf. Fold the leaf around the mixture, taking care not to rip the leaf.

Steam the conkies on a rack over boiling water in a large saucepan for 1 hour or until they are firm.

Unwrap and enjoy!

Substitutions

• The Banana leaves can be substituted with wax paper or foil.

Recipes and information adapted from: www.barbados.org