Coconut Bake Recipe from Trinidad and Tobago

Coconut bake

Coconut Bake Recipe from Trinidad and Tobago
Region / culture: Trinidad and Tobago | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Coconut bake
Coconut bake

Coconut bake is a delicious Caribbean bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. It is made with simple ingredients like flour, coconut, and sugar, and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.

History

Coconut bake has its origins in the Caribbean, where coconuts are abundant and commonly used in cooking. It is a popular dish in countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Barbados, where it is often served with saltfish or other savory dishes.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder into a bowl.
  2. Rub in the fat, then stir in the sugar and grated coconut.
  3. Add water and mix until a firm dough forms.
  4. Turn out the dough onto a floured board, knead lightly, shape it into a ball, and cover it for 15–20 minutes.
  5. Press the dough into the center and, using a rolling pin, roll it into a circular shape about 0.75" thick.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
  7. Decorate the dough with fork or knife marks.
  8. Place the dough onto a flat, greased baking sheet and bake until it turns brown, which should take about 20–30 minutes.
  9. Remove the dough from the oven.
  10. Cut the dough into desired shapes, each about 2-3 inches wide.

Variations

  • Add raisins or nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.
  • Substitute coconut milk for water for a richer coconut flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Knead the dough lightly to avoid overworking it, which can result in a tough bake.

- Decorate the dough with fork or knife marks before baking to add a decorative touch.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut bake is best served warm with butter or jam. It can also be enjoyed with savory dishes like saltfish or stewed meats.

Cooking Techniques

Knead the dough lightly to ensure a tender texture.

- Bake the coconut bake in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine in this recipe.

- You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier version of coconut bake.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for coconut bake ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve coconut bake on a platter with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Coconut bake pairs well with savory dishes like curry chicken or stewed beef. It also goes well with tropical fruit salads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover coconut bake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of coconut bake contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of coconut bake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of coconut bake contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of coconut bake contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Coconut bake is a good source of iron and fiber.

Alergens

Coconut bake contains gluten and coconut.

Summary

Coconut bake is a delicious and nutritious bread that is high in carbohydrates and fiber. It is a good source of iron and is relatively low in calories.

Summary

Coconut bake is a delicious and versatile bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With its slightly sweet and nutty flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Coconut Bake. It was a bright and sunny day, much like today, when I was walking through the bustling streets of my hometown in Trinidad. The air was filled with the tempting aromas of spices and herbs, and my stomach grumbled in anticipation of a delicious meal.

As I passed by a small street vendor selling freshly baked goods, I caught a whiff of something that made my mouth water. The vendor was busy kneading dough and shaping it into small rounds before placing them in a hot oven. Curious, I approached the vendor and asked what he was making.

"Coconut Bake," he replied with a smile. "A traditional Trinidadian breakfast bread made with coconut milk and flour. Would you like to try one?"

I eagerly accepted his offer and watched as he pulled a golden-brown Coconut Bake from the oven. The aroma of freshly baked bread and coconut wafted through the air, and I couldn't wait to take a bite. The first taste was pure bliss – the bread was soft and fluffy, with a hint of sweetness from the coconut milk. I savored every bite, and before I knew it, the Coconut Bake was gone.

I asked the vendor for the recipe, but he simply smiled and said it was a family secret passed down through generations. Undeterred, I set out to recreate the Coconut Bake on my own. I visited local markets and gathered the necessary ingredients – flour, coconut milk, sugar, salt, and yeast – before returning home to my modest kitchen.

I rolled up my sleeves and got to work, following the steps I had watched the vendor perform earlier. I mixed the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl before slowly adding the coconut milk. The dough came together beautifully, and I kneaded it until it was smooth and elastic. I covered the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rest, allowing the yeast to work its magic.

After an hour, I divided the dough into small rounds and placed them on a baking sheet. I brushed each Coconut Bake with a little coconut milk before sliding them into a hot oven. The smell that filled my kitchen was intoxicating – a blend of warm bread and sweet coconut that transported me back to the streets of Trinidad.

As the Coconut Bakes baked, I anxiously waited, peeking through the oven door every few minutes to check on their progress. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I pulled the golden-brown loaves from the oven. They looked just like the ones from the vendor's stall, with a crisp crust and a soft, fluffy interior.

I couldn't resist tearing into one of the Coconut Bakes while it was still warm. The bread was delicious – slightly sweet with a subtle coconut flavor that lingered on my tongue. I knew I had stumbled upon something special, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

From that day on, Coconut Bake became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, experimenting with different variations and additions. Sometimes I would add raisins or nuts for extra flavor, or pair it with savory dishes like curried chicken or stewed fish.

Over the years, I perfected my recipe for Coconut Bake, tweaking and adjusting until it was just right. I shared it with anyone who would listen, passing on the tradition of this beloved Trinidadian bread. And though I never did uncover the vendor's secret recipe, I like to think that my version of Coconut Bake is just as delicious – a testament to the power of curiosity and a love for good food.

Categories

| Coconut Recipes | Trinidadian Recipes | Trinidadian Snacks |

Recipes with the same ingredients