It is traditional in Barbados for housewives to make conkies on Guy Fawkes Day. (November 5th.) - although the origin of the custom is unknown. Conkie is probably a corruption of the West African word "kenky" used up the present day, for similarly prepared corn meal dishes.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups grated coconut (1 large)
• 2 cups fresh corn flour
• 4 oz raisins (optional)
• 6 oz shortening
• 1/2 cup flour
• 3/4 lb brown sugar
• 3/4 lb pumpkin
• 1/2 lb sweet potato
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp powdered cinnamon
• 1 tsp grated nutmeg
• 1 tsp almond essence
• 1 tsp salt

Procedure:

1. Grate coconut, pumpkin and sweet potato.
2. Mix in sugar, liquids and spices.
3. Add raisins and flour last and combine well.
4. Melt shortening before adding with milk, etc.
5. Fold a few tablespoons of the mixture in steamed plantain leaves.
6. Cut in squares about 8 inches wide.
7. Steam conkies on a rack over boiling water in a large pot or in a steamer until they are firm and cooked.

Note:

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