Belizean Sweet Dukunu (Tamalitos)

Indulge in the delightful harmony of sweet and savory with Belizean Sweet Dukunu, also known as Tamalitos in the Caribbean. This thick, filling, and delicious dish captures the essence of Belizean cuisine, perfect as a side dish or a standalone snack. Dive into the sweetness of corn, the richness of coconut milk, and the crispy allure of salt pork, all wrapped in the comforting embrace of corn husks.

Ingredients

🐖 12 ounces sliced salt pork (divided)
🌽 30 ounces Del Monte Gold canned whole kernel corn
🥥 1 cup canned coconut milk
🧈 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
🍚 1/2 teaspoon Argo baking powder
🧂 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
🍯 1/2 cup brown cane sugar
🌾 3 cups enriched yellow cornmeal
🍃 12 large corn husks

Instructions

1- Crisp the Pork:

• In a wide pan over medium heat, cook the 12 ounces of sliced salt pork until crispy.
• Reserve 1/4 of it for blending with corn, mix 1/2 into the batter, and save the rest for garnish.

2- Blend Corn Mixture:

• Drain the corn and blend it with the reserved 1/4 crispy salt pork until coarse.
• Add the coconut milk, vegetable shortening, baking powder, and sea salt to the blender, and blend until smooth.

3- Prepare the Batter:

• Transfer the smooth corn mixture to a large mixing bowl.
• Stir in the brown cane sugar and cornmeal until thoroughly combined.
• Fold in half of the remaining crispy pork for flavor and texture.

4- Wrap:

• Lay out the corn husks on top of pieces of aluminum foil.
• Spoon about half a cup of the dukunu mixture onto each husk.
• Roll the husk and foil tightly to prevent leaks, ensuring to fold ends to seal.

5- Cook:

• Bring a large pot of water to boil.
• Stack the wrapped dukunu upright.
• Cover loosely for the first 20 minutes, allowing steam to escape, then tighten the lid and cook for another 20 minutes.
• The dukunu should be firm to the touch once done.

6- Serve:

• Remove from foil and husk, garnish with the remaining crispy salt pork, and enjoy.
• For a complete meal, serve alongside a vibrant conch ceviche.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: Approximately 12 servings
Equipment: Wide Pan/Skillet, Countertop Blender, Various Measuring Cups & Spoons (e.g., bergHOFF 1/2 tsp measuring spoon), Large Mixing Bowl, Aluminum Foil, Cooking Pot with Lid, Tongs

Cooking Tips

• Pork Alternative: Use bacon bits for convenience, but note smaller pork chunks.
• Sealing: Ensure a tight seal to prevent the mixture from leaking during cooking.
• Steam Release: During the initial cook, keep the pot lid slightly ajar.

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Belizean Sweet Dukunu (Tamalitos)

Posted by Waivio guest: @waivio_hivecooking