Dumb bread

Dumb bread is a traditional bread that originates from the Virgin Islands.^[1][2] The name "dumb bread" comes from the cooking technique called dum pukht, originating from India and brought to the Caribbean when the Indian indentured workers replaced the slaves.^[1][3][4]

Dumb bread

Dumb bread
Type	Bread
Place of origin	Virgin Islands
Serving temperature	Room temperature
Main ingredients	Flour, water, butter, salt, sugar, baking powder, milk, often shredded coconut

This bread does not require any yeast.^[5] Ingredients include flour, water, butter, sugar, baking powder, salt, and milk; oftentimes, shredded coconut is also added to the dough.^[1][6] Sometimes, cornmeal may be used.^[7] The same dough can be used to make johnnycakes.^[8] The bread can be filled with cheddar cheese.^[9][10] It is served cut into triangles and often along with bush tea or coffee.^[9]

On Annaberg in Saint John, the docents will sometimes act as bakers and make dumb bread.^[3][5]

Preparation

The dough is first made with the dry ingredients combined with butter then milk with shredded coconuts being optionally added.^[6] The dough is then kneaded and formed into a round loaf.^[6] The dough is then allowed to rest.^[6] It is then cooked in a skillet or dutch oven over hot coals with additional hot coals on top of the skillet lid to cook the bread from above and below.^[1][4][8] The bread is cooked until golden brown and sounding hollow when tapped.^[1] The bread requires a resting period after baking or it will be damp and doughy on the inside.^[6]

See also

• List of breads