Barbadian Conkies

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) cornmeal 2 cups (400g) cornmeal
• 1 cup (200g) grated pumpkin 1 cup (200g) grated pumpkin
• 1 cup (200g) grated sweet potato 1 cup (200g) grated sweet potato
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (120g) grated coconut 1 cup (120g) grated coconut
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Banana leaves, for wrapping Banana leaves, for wrapping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 8g (2g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 42g (18g sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, grated pumpkin, grated sweet potato, grated coconut, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut milk, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring well to combine and form a thick batter.
4. 4.
   Cut the banana leaves into rectangular pieces, approximately 8 inches by 10 inches.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the batter onto the center of each banana leaf piece.
6. 6.
   Fold the sides of the banana leaf over the batter, then fold the top and bottom to create a neat package.
7. 7.
   Secure the package with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
8. 8.
   Steam the conkies in a steamer basket or a large pot with a steamer insert for about 1 hour, or until the conkies are firm and cooked through.
9. 9.
   Allow the conkies to cool slightly before unwrapping and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pumpkin — Make sure to use fresh pumpkin and grate it finely for a smooth texture in the conkies.
• Sweet potato — Choose a variety of sweet potato that is not too fibrous for a softer consistency in the conkies.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Banana leaves — If banana leaves are not available, you can use parchment paper as a substitute, although it won't impart the same flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For added richness, you can sprinkle some raisins or chopped nuts into the batter before steaming.
• Serve the conkies warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the batter in a food processor before steaming.
• Leftover conkies can be refrigerated and reheated in a steamer or microwave for a quick and delicious snack.
• Experiment with different spices such as ginger or allspice to customize the flavor profile of your conkies.

Serving advice

Serve Barbadian Conkies as a delightful dessert or snack. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the steamer. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or a glass of coconut water for a truly authentic Barbadian experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, unwrap the conkies and place them on a platter lined with fresh banana leaves. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated coconut or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.