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Toolum

by Dave DeWitt and Mary Jane Wilan

In the early part of the twentieth century, sweet vendors would pound the streets of towns and villages in T&T, selling candies by means of a spinning wheel. For a penny, a customer spun the wheel and received the number candies indicated when the wheel stopped--up to fifty. Toolum, one of the earliest T&T candies, was undoubtedly supplied by such vendors.

Yield: 30 or more candies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups brown sugar
• ½ cup molasses
• 5 cups grated coconut
• 2 tablespoons crushed dried orange peel
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• Grated coconut for topping

Method:
Melt the sugar in a pot under low heat, stirring constantly, and cook until it turns golden brown. Add the molasses, stirring constantly. Add the coconut, orange peel, and ginger, and reduce heat, still stirring. Cook until the mixture separates smoothly from the bottom and side of the pot.

Remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto aluminum foil or a slightly oiled cookie sheet. Place grated coconut atop each little cone.

More recipes by Dave DeWitt and Mary Jane Wilan

Dave DeWitt's website: http://www.fiery-foods.com/dave/

Callaloo, Calypso and Carnival: The Cuisines of Trinidad and Tobago
Dave DeWitt & Mary
Jane Wilan

 

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