Best 2 Trinidad Sweetbread Recipes

In the vibrant culinary landscape of Trinidad and Tobago, one delicacy that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike is the delectable sweetbread. This tantalizing dish, also known as "pastelles" or "bene" in other parts of the Caribbean, is a delectable combination of savory minced meat, aromatic spices, and a sweet, flaky pastry that encases this flavorful filling. Embark on a culinary journey as we explore the art of crafting this beloved Trinidadian sweetbread, a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. This article presents a collection of meticulously crafted recipes, each offering unique variations on this classic dish. From the traditional beef-based filling to innovative vegetarian and vegan alternatives, these recipes cater to diverse dietary preferences and ensure that everyone can savor the joys of sweetbread.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

TRINIDAD SWEETBREAD

Trinidad Sweetbread image

A traditional coconut and fruit bread from the island of Trinidad in the Caribbean.

Provided by Bernadette

Categories Bread Quick Bread Recipes Fruit Bread Recipes

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

½ pound butter, softened
4 ½ cups white sugar
4 eggs, beaten
1 cup evaporated milk
2 teaspoons almond extract
9 cups all-purpose flour
9 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 cups shredded coconut
1 cup chopped dried mixed fruit
1 cup raisins

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two 5x9 inch loaf pans and set aside.
Blend together the butter, sugar, eggs, evaporated milk and almond extract.
Sift together the flour, baking powder and cinnamon. Add to wet ingredients and stir.
Add coconut, coarsely mixed dry chopped fruit and raisins. Mix well and pour into prepared loaf tins.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from pans and cool on wire rack.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1063.4 calories, Carbohydrate 188.8 g, Cholesterol 108.8 mg, Fat 30 g, Fiber 6.8 g, Protein 15.2 g, SaturatedFat 21.1 g, Sodium 1362.7 mg, Sugar 98.2 g

COCONUT SWEET BREAD - TRINIDAD

Coconut Sweet Bread - Trinidad image

Great with a cup of black coffee. This is my friend's grandmother's recipe. Mixed peel is the candied peel of various fruit. Use candied orange peel or candied papaya peel or a combination of the two.

Provided by WizzyTheStick

Categories Quick Breads

Time 1h15m

Yield 2 loaves, 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

4 1/2 cups flour
4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 cup chopped dried mixed fruit
1 cup raisins or 1 cup sultana
3 cups coconut, grated (not dried or sweetened)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, ground
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, grated
2 eggs, well-beaten
1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 teaspoons almond essence
1/2 lb butter (melted) or 1/2 lb margarine (melted)

Steps:

Mix and sift flour, baking powder and salt four times.
Add sugar and fruit; blend evenly.
Add coconut, cinamon and grated nutmeg and stir well.
In another bowl combine the whipped eggs, milk, essence and cooled melted butter. Mix well.
Make a well in the flour mixture.
Pour the egg mixture into the well and stir with a spoon. Batter will be heavy and mixture will be fairly stiff.
DO NOT KNEAD or bread will be tough. Mix entirely by spoon, assisted by a knife.
Pile into 2 non-stick or greased loaf tins.
Bake at 325 degrees for 50 - 60 minutes or until an inserted skewer comes out clean.
OPTIONAL: When done, glaze with mixture of 1 tablespoon sugar and one tablespoon water. Sprinkle with granulated sugar and Return to the oven for 3 -4 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 986, Fat 46.8, SaturatedFat 34.1, Cholesterol 112.1, Sodium 747.9, Carbohydrate 134.3, Fiber 7.8, Sugar 69.6, Protein 12.9

Tips:

Mise en Place: Before you start baking, make sure you have all of your ingredients and equipment ready to go. This will help you stay organized and avoid scrambling.
Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better your sweetbread will taste. If possible, use local and organic ingredients.
Proof the Yeast: Proofing the yeast is an important step that ensures that your sweetbread will rise properly. To proof the yeast, dissolve it in warm water with a little bit of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
Knead the Dough Properly: Kneading the dough is an important step that helps to develop the gluten and give your sweetbread a chewy texture. Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise: After you have kneaded the dough, let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This will help to give your sweetbread a light and airy texture.
Bake the Sweetbread Properly: Bake the sweetbread in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-45 minutes, or until it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Conclusion:

Trinidad sweetbread is a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With these tips, you can make a perfect Trinidad sweetbread every time.