Dukuna is a beloved Caribbean dish, particularly popular in Antigua and Barbuda. This sweet, steamed dumpling is made from grated sweet potatoes, coconut, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves or foil before being boiled. Often enjoyed as a standalone treat or alongside saltfish, Dukuna is a flavorful blend of natural sweetness and warm spices that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine.

Ingredients

2 lbs (900g) sweet potatoes, grated

1 cup (200g) brown sugar

1 cup (90g) grated coconut

1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp ginger, grated

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

Banana leaves or aluminum foil for wrapping

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture In a large bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes, brown sugar, coconut, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix well.

Add Liquid Ingredients Stir in coconut milk and vanilla extract until a thick batter forms.

Wrap the Dukuna Place a portion of the mixture onto a banana leaf or foil and fold it securely into a parcel.

Boil the Dukuna Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully place the wrapped parcels inside. Simmer for about 45-60 minutes until firm.

Cool and Serve Remove from the water, let cool slightly, and unwrap before serving.

Serving Dukuna can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack or dessert, but it’s also traditionally paired with saltfish for a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors.

This traditional Caribbean dish is a must-try for those who love sweet, spiced flavors with a unique texture. Whether as a side dish or dessert, Dukuna is a delightful taste of the islands!