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A corn based delicacy that dates back to the 18th century. It is 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; but in modern Barbados it is eaten during Independence Day celebrations on November 30th.

INGREDIENTS

1 large dry coconut, grated
¾ lb grated pumpkin
½ lb grated sweet potato
¾ lb sugar
1 tsp spice
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp almond essence
4 ozs. raisins
1 cup flour
2 cups corn flour or corn meal
1 tsp salt
4 ozs. melted butter or margarine
2 ozs. melted shortening
1 cup milk
Banana or plantain leaves cut in 8 inch squares

METHOD

Mix the coconut, pumpkin, sweet potato, sugar, spices, almond essence, raisins, flour, corn flour, and salt together thoroughly. With a wooden spoon, stir in the melted butter, shortening and milk and mix until smooth.

Place 2 heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto each plantain leaf square, fold the edges to make a neat envelope and tie securely.

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. Unwrap the conkies and serve on a heated dish.

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