Guyana is a small country located on the northern mainland of South America. It has a rich culture and diverse cuisine that is heavily influenced by its African, Indian, Chinese, and European roots.
One of the most popular and beloved dishes in Guyana is the Guyana Cassava Pone, a traditional sweet and savory pudding made from grated cassava, coconut milk, and spices. This dish is usually served at special occasions and holidays, but it can be enjoyed year-round.
What is Guyana Cassava Pone?
Guyana Cassava Pone is a thick pudding-like dish, made with grated cassava, coconut milk, and spices. It is a popular dessert in Guyana, and is typically served at special occasions such as weddings, christenings, and holidays. It is also a great snack to enjoy anytime.
The main ingredients of this dish are grated cassava, coconut milk, brown sugar, nutmeg, salt, and butter. The cassava is grated into a fine mixture, then combined with the coconut milk, sugar, and spices. The mixture is then cooked in a pot over low heat until it thickens. Once it has cooled, it is ready to be served.
What Does It Taste Like?
Guyana Cassava Pone has a unique and delicious flavor. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients gives this dish a complex yet balanced taste. The cassava provides a nutty, earthy flavor, while the coconut milk adds sweetness and richness.
The nutmeg adds a hint of warmth, while the butter and salt provide just the right amount of savory flavor.
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Ingredients
Cassava root: This is the main ingredient in this dish. It is a starchy tuber that is commonly used in Guyanese cuisine.
Shredded coconut: The shredded coconut gives this dish a rich and creamy texture.
Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the pone.
Evaporated milk: This adds creaminess to the dish, along with a touch of sweetness.
Brown sugar: This is the main sweetener for the pone, giving it a rich caramel-like flavor.
Vanilla extract and almond extract: These two extracts add depth and sweetness to the dish.
Spices (cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground pepper): These spices add warmth and complexity to the dish.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a greased 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cassava, shredded coconut, melted butter, evaporated milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and spices. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 3: Pour and smooth out the mixture:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth out the top.
Step 4: Bake until golden brown:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the pone is set and golden brown on top.
Step 5: Let it cool:
Once cooked, remove the pone from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing into squares and serving.
Tips
- Be sure to use fresh cassava root for this recipe. Frozen or canned cassava can alter the texture and taste of the pone.
- Grate the cassava finely to ensure a smooth texture in the final dish.
- Add more or less sugar according to your preference. You can also substitute with other sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup.
- For a vegan version, you can use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.
Nutrition Information
One serving of Guyana Cassava Pone provides approximately
What to Serve with Guyana Cassava Pone?
Guyana Cassava Pone is typically served as a dessert or snack, but it can also be enjoyed as a side dish. Here are some suggestions for what to serve with Guyana Cassava Pone:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert
- A cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack
- Spicy curries or stews for a balanced meal
- Fresh fruits, such as mangoes or bananas, for a lighter option
How to Store Leftover Guyana Cassava Pone?
Leftover Guyana Cassava Pone can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Guyana Cassava Pone?
If you don’t have all of the ingredients for Guyana Cassava Pone, here are some substitutes that you can use:
* If you don’t have fresh cassava, you can use frozen grated cassava instead.
* If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use soy milk or almond milk instead.
* If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar or honey instead.
* If you don’t have nutmeg, you can use ground cinnamon or ground cardamom instead.
* If you don’t have butter, you can use coconut oil or vegetable oil instead.
Equipment
- oven
- parchment paper
Ingredients
- 9 cups grated cassava root
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 12 tbsp butter
- 6 cups evaporated milk
- 3 cups brown sugar
- 4.5 tsp vanilla
- 2 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a greased 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cassava, shredded coconut, melted butter, evaporated milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and spices. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until the pone is set and golden brown on top.
- Let the pone cool completely before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
- Be sure to use fresh cassava root for this recipe. Frozen or canned cassava can alter the texture and taste of the pone.
- Grate the cassava finely to ensure a smooth texture in the final dish.
- Add more or less sugar according to your preference. You can also substitute with other sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup.
- For a vegan version, you can use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of Guyana Cassava Pone?
Guyana Cassava Pone is a traditional dish from Guyana, a small country located on the northern mainland of South America. It has been a popular dish for many generations, and is usually served at special occasions and holidays.
Is Guyana Cassava Pone gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or grain products. However, be sure to check the labels of your ingredients, especially if using store-bought coconut milk or spices.
Can I freeze Guyana Cassava Pone?
Yes, you can freeze Guyana Cassava Pone for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
Conclusion
Guyana Cassava Pone is a traditional dish from Guyana that is usually served at special occasions and holidays. It has a unique and delicious flavor, thanks to the combination of cassava, coconut milk, and spices.
This dish is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or side dish. Give it a try and experience the flavors of Guyanese cuisine!
So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and let us know how you like it in the comments below. Happy cooking!