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Virgin Islands Cooking
Carol M. Bareuther

by Carol M. Bareuther

Dum refers to a style of cooking used in India to make bread. Virgin Islanders would place coals in the bottom of a coal pot. Then, bread dough was put in a cast iron skillet and placed on top of the coals. Then over the pot, there was a metal sheet with more coals on top. Over the years, the named changed to dumb.

Yield: 60 servings
Nutrition: 272 calories, 11 grams fat, 2 milligrams cholesterol and 388 milligrams sodium per one-tenth loaf serving (with coconut).

Ingredients:

• 5 pounds all-purpose flour
• 1 quart water
• ¾ pound sugar
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 1 pound margarine or butter
• 1 pound shortening
• 6 ounces baking powder
• 1 cup dried shredded coconut, if desired

Method:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients to form a dough. On a floured surface, knead the dough until smooth, or about 10 to 15 minutes. (Dough will be somewhat stiff.) Divide dough into six pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly with the palm of the hand. Place loaves on a greased baking sheet. Bake in a pre-heated 350° oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until browned. When done, cut into ten wedges.

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