Bullas

Jamaican Bullas Recipe with Brown Sugar, Ginger, and Nutmeg

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Bullas are a traditional Jamaican sweet bread that is enjoyed by many. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple in Jamaican cuisine. The combination of brown sugar, ginger, and nutmeg gives bullas a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Bullas have been a popular treat in Jamaica for many years. The recipe is believed to have originated from the island's African heritage, with influences from British and Spanish colonization. Bullas are often enjoyed during special occasions such as holidays and family gatherings.

Ingredients

2.75 cups brown sugar
0.5 tbsp salt
2 cups + a little bit of water
1 cup margarine
2 tbsp ginger
2 tbsp vanilla
7.5 cups flour
3 tbsp baking powder
0.5 tbsp baking soda
1 tsp nutmeg
flour for rolling out bulla

How to prepare

Dissolve sugar and salt in water, then add ginger, margarine, and vanilla.
Sift together all dry ingredients and gradually combine with the liquid.
The dough should be clammy and heavy.
Place the dough on a floured board and dust with flour until it becomes manageable.
Roll out the dough to a thickness of 0.75 cm and cut into slices.
Bake in an oven preheated to 375°F (191°C) until done, approximately 20 – 25 minutes.

Variations

Add raisins or dried fruit to the dough for a sweeter flavor.
Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth and even texture in the dough.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough bullas.

- Keep an eye on the baking time, as bullas can easily burn if left in the oven for too long.

Serving Suggestions

Bullas are best enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat the oven before baking the bullas.

- Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure the bullas are cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used instead of margarine.

- Ground cinnamon can be used instead of nutmeg.

Make Ahead Tips

Bullas can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve bullas on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

Pairing Recommendations

Bullas pair well with a hot cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store bullas in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place in a microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of bullas contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of bullas contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of bullas contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of bullas contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Bullas are a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Bullas are a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Bullas are a delicious Jamaican sweet bread that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich history and unique flavor, bullas are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed and tattered cards, one caught my eye. It simply read "Bullas" in faded cursive writing.

I had never heard of Bullas before, but something about the name intrigued me. I could almost smell the aromas of the dish wafting through the air as I read the ingredients: beef, potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It sounded like a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for a chilly day.

Curious to learn more about this mysterious dish, I turned to the back of the card where my grandmother had written a brief note. She explained that Bullas was a traditional recipe from her homeland, passed down through generations. It was a dish that brought people together, a dish that warmed both the body and the soul.

With a newfound excitement, I set out to recreate this recipe for Bullas. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen, the familiar scents of cooking filling the air. As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to my roots, to the generations of women who had come before me and cooked this same recipe.

When it was finally time to sit down and taste the Bullas, I was filled with anticipation. The first bite was like a revelation – the flavors were rich and complex, the meat tender and juicy. It was a dish that was simple yet full of depth, a dish that spoke to the heart.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think about all the stories and memories that were woven into this recipe. I imagined my grandmother in her own kitchen, stirring a pot of Bullas with a smile on her face. I thought of the laughter and love that must have filled her home as she cooked this dish for her family.

I realized then that this recipe for Bullas was more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions. It was a piece of my family's history, a thread that connected me to my past and to all the women who had come before me. It was a recipe that held within it the flavors of tradition and the warmth of love.

And so, as I finished my meal and wiped my plate clean, I made a promise to myself to pass this recipe down to future generations. I would teach my own grandchildren how to make Bullas, just as my grandmother had taught me. I would share with them the stories and memories that were tied to this dish, so that they too could feel the connection to their roots.

As I sat back in my chair, my heart full and my stomach satisfied, I knew that I had found more than just a recipe that day. I had found a piece of myself, a piece of my family's story, a piece of love that would continue to nourish us for generations to come. And for that, I was truly grateful.