Bammy

Bammy is a traditional Jamaican flatbread that originated from the Arawak indigenous people of the Caribbean. It is made from cassava, a root vegetable that is a staple in many tropical regions.

History

The Arawak people, also known as the Taino, were the original inhabitants of Jamaica. They developed the process of making bammy, which involved grating the cassava, pressing out the liquid, sieving the meal, and finally baking it on a hot griddle. This process was labor-intensive but resulted in a versatile food that could be stored for long periods.

Preparation

To prepare bammy, the cassava is first peeled and grated. The grated cassava is then placed in a cloth and squeezed to remove the toxic juice. The remaining cassava meal is mixed with a small amount of salt, then shaped into discs and baked on a griddle. The resulting flatbread is dense and slightly chewy, with a mild flavor that pairs well with many dishes.

Cultural Significance

Bammy is a significant part of Jamaican cultural heritage. It is often served with fried fish, especially in traditional coastal communities. In recent years, it has seen a resurgence in popularity as part of a movement to revive traditional Jamaican foods.

See Also

• Jamaican cuisine
• Cassava
• Arawak

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