Conkies

This is a corn based delicacy from Barbados that dates back to the 18th century. Traditionally, it's made and eaten almost exclusively during the month of November. Originally it was made to be eaten during the old British colonial celebration of Guy Fawkes Day on November 5th. Posted for Zaar World Tour 05

• Ready In: 1 hr 40 mins
• Serves: 30

Ingredients

• 1  large  dried coconut, grated
• 3⁄4 lb  grated pumpkin
• 1⁄2 lb  grated sweet potato
• 3⁄4 lb sugar
• 1  teaspoon nutmeg
• 1  teaspoon allspice
• 1  teaspoon  almond essence
• 4  ounces raisins
• 1  cup flour
• 2  cups cornflour or 2  cups cornmeal
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 4  ounces  melted butter or 4  ounces margarine
• 2  ounces  melted shortening
• 1  cup milk
•  banana leaves or  plantain leaves, cut in 8 inch squares

Directions

1. Mix the coconut, pumpkin, sweet potato, sugar, spices, almond essence, raisins, flour, corn flour, and salt together thoroughly.
2. With a wooden spoon, stir in the melted butter, shortening and milk and mix until smooth.
3. Place 2 heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto each plantain leaf square, fold the edges to make a neat envelope and tie securely.
4. Steam the conkies on a rack over boiling water in a large saucepan, or in a steamer, for about 1 hour or until they are firm.
5. Unwrap the conkies and serve on a heated dish.
6. Note: I may be off on the amount of servings this makes. It's been a while since I made it.