19 West Indian Plain Cake Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 28, 2024
When it comes to traditional West Indian desserts, the Plain Cake holds a special place in the hearts and palates of many. This simple yet indulgent treat is a staple at gatherings and celebrations, with its rich flavor and moist texture. It's a dessert that is loved by all ages and is easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for many home cooks. In this article, we will delve into the history of the West Indian Plain Cake and provide a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable dessert in your own kitchen.
Start your meal off with a hearty and flavorful side dish of Indian spiced lentils. Cooked with fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, these lentils are the perfect accompaniment to a juicy beer can chicken. For an extra kick of flavor, add a dash of garam masala and red chili powder to the lentils before serving.
No Indian feast is complete without a classic dish of butter chicken. This creamy and indulgent curry is made with tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. To add even more depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices before cooking it on the beer can.
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West Indian-Style Channa Wrap
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Diced Onions, Garlic, Chile Pepper, Fresh
Take your beer can chicken to the next level by adding an Indian-inspired twist to a classic wrap. Fill a warm tortilla with tender pieces of spiced chicken, creamy chickpea curry, and a spicy mango chutney for a burst of flavors in every bite.
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Indian Chicken Korma
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Extra Virgin Olive
For a rich and creamy dish that pairs perfectly with a cold beer, try making a traditional Indian chicken korma. This luxurious curry is made with cashews, cream, and aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a meal fit for a king.
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West Indian-Style Roti (Flatbread)
Main Ingredients: Self Rising Flour, Vegetable Oil, Warm Water, Melted
An Indian meal is not complete without some form of bread to soak up all the delicious sauces. For a taste of the West Indies, try making a roti, a traditional flatbread made with whole wheat flour, cumin seeds, and coconut oil. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
If you're a fan of seafood, then you'll love this Indian-inspired shrimp curry. Made with plump and juicy shrimp and a flavorful blend of spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric, this dish is perfect for pairing with a cold beer and your beer can chicken.
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Indian Chickpea Coconut Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Curry
For a vegetarian option that is still full of flavor, try making an Indian chickpea coconut curry. This dish is made with creamy coconut milk, tender chickpeas, and a blend of spices like garam masala and ginger. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Plain Paratha (An Indian Flat Bread)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, Chapati Flour
For a more simple and traditional Indian side dish, try making a plain paratha. This flaky and buttery flatbread is perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors of your beer can chicken. To add a little extra flavor, sprinkle some crushed garlic and coriander leaves on top before serving.
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West Indian Goat Curry--With Beef
Main Ingredients: Cilantro Stems, Onion, Peppers, Ginger, Fresh Thyme
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making a West Indian goat curry to serve with your beer can chicken? This dish is made with tender pieces of goat meat, but you can also substitute beef if you prefer. Spiced with cloves, allspice, and thyme, this hearty curry is perfect for a cold beer and a flavorful meal.
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Plain Sweet Lassi | Sweet Lassi | Indian Lassi
Main Ingredients: Yogurt, Milk, Ice Cubes, Sugar
For a refreshing and cooling drink to pair with your spicy beer can chicken, try making a traditional Indian lassi. This yogurt-based drink comes in three variations: plain, sweet, and mango. Choose whichever one suits your taste buds and enjoy a creamy and flavorful beverage alongside your meal.
A classic and simple Indian chicken curry is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. Made with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, this dish is full of flavor and pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
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Indian Dal Nirvana (Dal Makhani)
Main Ingredients: Dry Lentils, Crushed Tomato, Fresh Ginger, Minced
Dal Nirvana, also known as Dal Makhani, is a rich and creamy lentil dish that is perfect for pairing with your beer can chicken. Made with black lentils, kidney beans, and cream, this dish is full of protein and flavor. For an extra kick, add some green chilies to the lentils before serving.
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Indian Curry Chicken
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken, Onion
For a flavorful and spicy dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken, try making an Indian curry chicken. This dish is made with tender chicken pieces and a blend of aromatic spices like coriander, cumin, and cloves. Serve it with some steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
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West Indian Chicken Curry With Cinnamon and Tomatoes
Main Ingredients: Onions, Clove, Curry Powder, Canela, Sweet Potatoes
Add a touch of sweetness to your beer can chicken meal with a West Indian chicken curry made with cinnamon and tomatoes. This dish is full of warm and comforting flavors and pairs perfectly with a cold beer and a hot summer day.
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Indian Coconut Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Fresh Grated Ginger
For a lighter and healthier option, try making an Indian coconut lentil curry. This dish is made with red lentils, coconut milk, and a blend of spices like curry powder and turmeric. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a balanced and flavorful meal.
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Plain Aloo Tikki
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Garam Masala, Chillies, Salt, Cumin Seeds
Aloo tikki, or potato fritters, are a delicious and crispy snack that can also make a great side dish for your beer can chicken. Made with potatoes, onions, and spices, these fritters are perfect for dipping in some mint chutney or chili sauce.
For a sweet treat to end your Indian-inspired meal, try making a simple and delicious cake without an oven. Made with flour, sugar, and milk, this cake is perfect for serving with some fresh fruit and a cold beer.
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West Indian Curried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Chicken, Onion, Garlic, Potatoes, Salt
For a unique flavor experience, try making a West Indian curried chicken dish to serve with your beer can chicken. This dish is made with tender chicken pieces and a blend of spices like allspice, ginger, and cumin. Serve it with some steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
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North Indian Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Onions, Plain Yogurt, Cornstarch, Ginger
For a spicy and flavorful dish to pair with your beer can chicken, try making a North Indian chicken curry. This dish is made with boneless chicken, tomato puree, and a blend of spices like garam masala and chili powder. Serve it with some naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Roti (Buttery Indian Flatbread)
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Salt, Melted Butter, Water, Butter
For a simple and delicious side dish to serve with your beer can chicken, try making a batch of roti. This buttery and flaky flatbread is perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors of your meal. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder and chopped cilantro on top before serving.
The Origins of West Indian Plain Cake
The Influence of British Colonization
The West Indian Plain Cake has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when the British colonized the Caribbean islands. During this time, the British brought over their traditional Christmas fruitcake recipe, which featured dried fruits, nuts, and spices. However, due to the limited availability of these ingredients in the Caribbean, the locals had to make do with what they had. This led to the creation of the West Indian Plain Cake, which used locally available ingredients such as coconut, rum, and molasses.
A Symbol of Unity
As the West Indian Plain Cake became a popular dessert among the locals, it also became a symbol of unity among the diverse cultures in the Caribbean. The cake was enjoyed by people of all backgrounds and was often shared during celebrations and festivals, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie.
Making the West Indian Plain Cake
Ingredients and Preparation
The ingredients for the West Indian Plain Cake include flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, baking powder, vanilla extract, and the key flavoring ingredient, rum. The first step is to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the dry ingredients and milk. Finally, fold in the rum and pour the batter into a greased cake tin.
Baking and Serving
The West Indian Plain Cake is traditionally baked in a slow oven for an hour and a half, resulting in a moist and dense texture. Once baked, the cake is typically served sliced and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an extra burst of flavor, some may also choose to add a drizzle of rum or a dollop of whipped cream.
In Conclusion
The West Indian Plain Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a representation of the Caribbean's rich history and cultural diversity. With its simple yet delicious flavor, it has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved dessert in the region. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the taste of the Caribbean in your own home?