Coconut Gizzada

History of Coconut Gizzada

Coconut Gizzada, sometimes spelled "Gizzarda," is a popular Jamaican pastry with origins tracing back to the island's rich cultural history. Featuring influences from African, European, and indigenous peoples, this delightful treat showcases Jamaica's ability to create unique flavors with locally available ingredients like the coconut. Traditionally, gizzadas are enjoyed as a snack or dessert, often found in local Jamaican bakeries and markets. The sweet, spiced coconut filling encased in a crispy, buttery crust offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a cherished delicacy among locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and diced
• Water - 4 tablespoons, ice-cold
• Coconut - 3 cups, grated
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon, ground
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon, ground
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Water - 1/2 cup

Preparation and Cooking Process

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice-cold water, mixing just until a dough forms. Do not overwork the dough. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the grated coconut, sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Add the water and place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and comes together, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat. Let the filling cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Gizzadas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut circles from the dough, approximately 4 inches in diameter. Place each round on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the coconut filling into the center of each dough circle. Crimp the edges of the dough towards the center to enclose the filling partially, forming a fluted edge.

Step 4: Baking

Bake the gizzadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry turns a light golden color. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

How to Enjoy Coconut Gizzada

Coconut gizzadas are best enjoyed at room temperature, allowing the flavors of the spiced coconut filling and the buttery crust to be fully appreciated. They can be served as an accompaniment to afternoon tea or coffee and are perfect for sharing with family and friends at gatherings or celebrations. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you've set up a cooking timer or plan to, enjoy the freshly baked aroma as a delightful prelude to savoring each bite of this authentic Jamaican pastry.