Coconut Squares (Qumbe)

This is a very nice coconut sweet. It is nice to serve on special occasions but it is also a nice yummy treat for whenever!

Cook time about 30 minutes plus 1 hour to cool

Makes about 12 squares

3 Cups of Milk

2 Cups of Sugar

3 Cups of unsweetened Coconut Flakes

1 Teaspoon of Cardamom Powder

Heat the stove on medium high (about a 7 on the stove) add the milk and sugar, bring to a full boil stirring constantly. Once it boils you may need to turn the stove down so the milk does not over boil, but be sure to keep the milk/sugar mixture at a full boil.

Stir for another 15 minutes. You will notice the color change from white to off white/cream color. Also, take a little of the liquid on your finger and once it drys it should be very sticky on your fingers.

Add the cardamom powder and coconut flakes.

Stir until ALL the liquid is gone. Turn the stove down on low (about a 3 on the stove) let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

The Qumbe will be very sticky.

Pour into a greased pan (I use a 6" X 9"). Smooth it out and firmly press down on the Qumbe to pack it together. You may find it easier to grease a piece of wax paper and put it on the Qumbe and use an oven mitt to press down hard and evenly to pack it in.

Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Cut it into squares and serve.