Johnny Cake

Journey cakes, more commonly referred to as johnny cakes, is a savory, biscuit-like baked good enjoyed for breakfast or supper. It is often cut open and buttered fresh out the oven. Originating from the Creole ethnic group of Belize, it has spread culturally and can be found at local Maya/ Mestizo tacos stands sold with chicken tacos meat or even beans and cheese in the middle, in addition to a variety of food shops that sell breakfast. Johnny cakes can be eaten with just about anything but is more popularly eaten with beans, either stewed or refried, and Happy Cow or Dutch Cheese.

 

Makes – 6

 

INGREDIENTS

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp. baking powder

¼ tsp salt

¾ cup (75 g) margarine or shortening

^3/4 cup coconut milk

OR

25 g coconut milk powder

¾ cup water

about ½ tsp coconut oil (optional)

 

DIRECTIONS:

1.     Wash hands and clean fingernails thoroughly.

2.     Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, margarine, and coconut milk powder. A little bit of coconut oil can be added for additional coconut flavour.

3.     Mixing with one hand, slowly add water or coconut milk to the dry ingredients until well combined and not too sticky.

4.     On a clean countertop, knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.

5.     Leave the dough covered to set for 10 to 15 minutes.

6.     Preheat the oven, while the dough rests, at 425 degrees.

7.     Divide the dough and roll until smooth into about 6 balls.

8.     Flatten the balls with your wrist into small circles and place in a baking pan.

9.     Use a fork the make holes into the dough. Prick horizontally at the top, bottom, and the left and right sides (Think about North, South, East, West, while pricking).

10  Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.

11   Enjoy!