Caribbean Boiled Coconut Dumpling

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In the Caribbean, dumplings are boiled, fried and served as a side or in a soup. This version is the traditional Caribbean boiled coconut dumpling.
Recipe video:

As I start to discover various cuisines from around the world, I have noticed many dishes are quite similar to one another. Dumplings in Asia are filled with meat, while dumplings in the US are close to biscuits while dumplings in the Caribbean are different. I want you guys to discover these amazing Caribbean Boiled Coconut Dumplings.

Overhead shot of fresh coconut in a bowl

Usually, you can find boiled dumplings made from plain flour or sometimes with a little cornmeal in them. Although I like the classic version of dumplings, I also enjoy a little grated coconut in my dumplings. I grew up eating the coconut version more than the plain ones.

Angled shot of a Caribbean dumplings being boiled

I typically like to enjoy Caribbean boiled coconut dumpling with some saltfish or stew oxtails/chicken. Usually, I find these dumplings are amazing when they are soaked up in sauce.

I know for those who have never heard or seen Caribbean style dumplings may think it is hard to make at home. But I want to reassure you and let you know that it is not the case at all. They are very simple to make and the only complex thing in this recipe is the coconut.

Straight on shot of a dough of coconut dumpling being held

To ensure you get the best Coconut dumplings, I want to share some TIPS & TRICKS with you guys.

TIPS & TRICKS
  • Coconut: I ONLY use freshly grated coconut. Most of the time, the store brought kind is coated with sugar. However, if you can find freshly grated coconut that hasn’t been coated in sugar then use it. But if you cannot find any, then you will have to buy a fresh coconut and grate it yourself. Here is a link for methods on how to crack a coconut: Simple Ways to Open a Coconut.
  • Boiling: This is simple but important. Dumplings are boiled in water so if you don’t add a lot of salt to your water then they will be bland. So add about 4 tbsp of Salt to the boiling water. You will know when the dumplings are done because they will float to the top.
  • Dough: I usually use my hands for this process but you can use your mixing spoon. The key is to not have a dough that will stick to your hand and a dough that will not break apart in the water while boiling. I usually add my water gradually and if I added too much water then I add more flour. It’s simple.
Overhead shot of boiled Caribbean coconut dumplings on a plate

I hope you enjoy the recipe.

Now, let’s get into it.

3.50 from 4 votes

Caribbean Boiled Coconut Dumplings

In the Caribbean, dumplings are boiled, fried and served as a side or in a soup. This version is the traditional Caribbean boiled coconut dumpling.
Servings 16 dumplings
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 2 cups Freshly grated coconut
  • 1 cup Water (may need more or less)
  • 4 tbsp Butter at room temperature
  • 2 tbsp Sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Salt

Instructions

Making the dumplings:

  • In a mixing bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar together then add the butter.
  • Gradually stir in the water using hands or mixing spoon.

Kneading the dough:

  • Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, the goal is for the dough to not stick to your hands and for it to be firm.

Boiling process:

  • Place a medium or large saucepan filled with water over medium heat. Add a generous amount of salt to the water and bring to a boil.
  • Break off pieces of the dough, roll into a ball then flatten. Place it in the boiling water. Repeat the process with the rest of the dough.
  • Boil the dumplings for 10 minutes or until they have risen to the top.
  • Serve with saltfish, stew chicken or oxtail. Enjoy!
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Caribbean

Other coconut recipes you may enjoy:

Coconut Lime Ice Cream

Frozen Coconut Lime Daiquiri

Coconut Mango Cobbler

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