Saint Lucian Cassava Pone
A dense, sweet, and comforting baked dessert made from grated cassava, coconut, and warm spices. Cassava Pone is a traditional Caribbean treat that is rich in flavor and texture, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups Grated cassava(fresh or frozen, ensure it's finely grated)
- 1 cup Grated pumpkin(adds color and moisture)
- 1.5 cups Shredded coconut(fresh or desiccated)
- 0.5 cup Coconut milk
- 0.5 cup Evaporated milk
- 1 cup Sugar(granulated or brown sugar)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp Vanilla essence
- 3 tbsp Melted butter
- 2 tsp Grated ginger(fresh)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Raisins(optional)
- 0.25 cup Condensed milk(optional, for extra sweetness)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking dish (approx. 8x8 inch or similar).
💡 Tip: Using parchment paper in the baking dish can make removal easier. - 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cassava, grated pumpkin, shredded coconut, coconut milk, evaporated milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla essence, melted butter, grated ginger, and black pepper. If using, add raisins.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired, especially if using condensed milk. - 3
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. If using condensed milk, stir it in now.
- 4
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
💡 Tip: The mixture will be thick. - 5
Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown and slightly firm.
💡 Tip: Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the moisture content of the cassava and pumpkin. - 6
Let the pone cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares and serving. This is crucial for it to set properly.
💡 Tip: Cassava pone is often enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh cassava and pumpkin will yield the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Do not over-process the cassava if using a food processor; a slightly coarse texture is desirable.
- ✓The black pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity, don't omit it unless you dislike any hint of spice.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include a layer of custard on top, baked during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Add a touch of mixed spice or allspice for additional warmth.