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belizean johnny cake recipe

Belizean Johnny Cake Recipe

Belizean Johnny Cakes are a beloved traditional dish from Belize, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a side dish to meals like stew chicken or fried fish. These golden, crispy cakes are made with simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, sugar, and butter, and they’re fried to perfection for a delightful, soft, and fluffy interior.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
10 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Belizean
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable shortening
  • ¾ cup water adjust as needed
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Rolling pin (optional)
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Paper towels (for draining oil)

Method
 

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine evenly.
  3. Add Butter or Shortening:
  4. Add the butter (or shortening) to the dry ingredients and rub it in using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Add Water:
  6. Gradually add ¾ cup of water, mixing with your hands or a spoon, until a soft dough forms. Add more water if needed, or a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky.
  7. Knead the Dough:
  8. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  9. Let the Dough Rest:
  10. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
  11. Shape the Dough:
  12. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten them with your hands or a rolling pin to form ½-inch thick discs.
  13. Heat Oil:
  14. Heat enough vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
  15. Fry the Johnny Cakes:
  16. Fry each dough disc for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
  17. Drain the Oil:
  18. Remove the cakes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  19. Serve:
  20. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as beans, eggs, or stewed chicken.

Notes

Storage: Johnny cakes are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature. Reheat in a toaster or skillet to crisp them up again.
Adjusting the Recipe: You can add shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions: These cakes are traditionally served with stew chicken, fried fish, or beans, but they’re equally delicious with butter or jam for a simple snack.