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Easy Jamaican Cornmeal Blue Draws Recipe

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jamaican_dukuno_at_tapioca_village_retreatEasy Jamaican Cornmeal Blue Draws Recipe

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

One thing about Jamaicans, we will make something out of nothing. Whoever first came up with the idea of using simple, everyday ingredients to create something as delicious as Blue Draws deserves an award! 

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I remember as a child when my family was going through tough times, Blue Draws became a staple in our home. We may have been short on a lot of things, but growing up in the country, we had bananas, lots and lots of them. So much so that we didn’t always know what to do with them. That’s how we started making Blue Draws in abundance. Back then, I only knew of the banana version, sometimes with a little cornmeal added. But recently, I discovered that Blue Draws can be made with just cornmeal! 

If you’re already familiar with the traditional banana-based version, let me introduce you to this cornmeal variation. It’s rich, comforting, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you're making it for nostalgia’s sake or trying it for the first time, this version is sure to bring some authentic Jamaican flavour into your kitchen.

Jamaican Cornmeal Blue Draws Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 cups refined cornmeal
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 cups raisins (optional, but a nice touch)
  • 2 teaspoons grated nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
  • 4 cups freshly grated coconut milk
  • 1 large banana leaf (softened over a fire or boiled)
  • Banana bark strips or kitchen twine for tying

Instructions

  1. Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, raisins (if using), nutmeg, and salt. Give it a good mix to evenly distribute the flavours.
  2. Prepare the wet ingredients – In a separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar, vanilla essence, and freshly grated coconut milk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  3. Combine the mixtures – Slowly pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring as you go. The goal is to create a thick, but soft, dough that holds together when scooped.
  4. Wrap it up – Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto pre-cut pieces of the softened banana leaf. Carefully fold each piece into a tight parcel and secure it with banana bark strips or kitchen twine.
  5. Time to cook – Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently place the wrapped parcels into the water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the pot and let them boil for 45 minutes to an hour.
  6. Serve and enjoy – Once cooked, remove from the water, let them cool for a bit, then unwrap and enjoy!

Blue Draws, also known as Duckunoo or Tie-a-Leaf, has deep roots in Jamaican culture. This dish traces back to West African influences, where similar steamed dumplings were common. Enslaved Africans in Jamaica adapted the recipe using local ingredients, and it has remained a beloved treat for generations. The name “Blue Draws” is said to come from the bluish tint that banana leaves give the dumpling while steaming. As for “Duckunoo,” that name has African origins and is still used in some Caribbean islands today.

Why You Should Try This Cornmeal Version

If you’ve never had Blue Draws made with cornmeal, you’re in for a treat. It has a slightly different texture (firmer but still soft) and a deep, rich flavour that pairs beautifully with coconut milk and spices. It’s naturally gluten-free (as long as you skip the flour) and makes for a filling snack or dessert.
Plus, the process of making it is an experience in itself. There’s something special about wrapping each banana leaf, tying it up, and watching it transform in the pot.

Tips for the Best Blue Draws

  • Use freshly grated coconut milk for the best flavour. Canned coconut milk works, but nothing beats the richness of fresh coconut.
  • Soften the banana leaves properly by passing them over an open flame or boiling them briefly. This makes them more flexible and easier to wrap.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your taste. Some people prefer their Blue Draws less sweet, while others like it rich and sugary.
  • Don’t skip the nutmeg, it’s what gives Blue Draws that warm, comforting spice that makes it so addictive.
  • Try different variations if you’re feeling creative, mix in mashed sweet potato or a little grated ginger for a twist on the classic recipe.

Whether you grew up eating it or are just discovering it now, this cornmeal version is a delicious way to experience a true Jamaican classic.
So the next time you’re in the mood for something uniquely Jamaican, gather your ingredients, soften your banana leaves, and get ready to enjoy a sweet treat.

Speaking of sweet treats, we have an aptly named recipe ebook, Jamaican Sweet Treat, that is filled with as you may have guessed, recipes for some of our most popular and traditional Jamaican treats and desserts.

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References & Sources For Easy Jamaican Cornmeal Blue Draws Recipe

  1. Dukunu – a traditional Jamaican dessert with an easy recipe. (n.d.). My-Island-Jamaica.com. https://www.my-island-jamaica.com/dukunu-a-traditional-jamaican-dessert-with-an-easy-recipe.html

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