Yahneake Sterling, Staff Reporter

Busta is one of the most favoured Jamaican sweets made from coconut and brown sugar.

Many have tried their hands at making this sweet treat, but it is the lady from St. Thomas, Yvonne Chin, who seems to have mastered the art of making busta (stagga back).

"It is a simple process, but it is quite technical and you have to have a feel for it," Mrs. Chin explained.

Ingredients

Brown sugar

Grated dried coconut

Ginger root

Salt

How to prepare your coconut:

Remove coconut from shell

Scrape the brown part off the back of the fruit.

Grater the coconut

Freeze it before use (optional)

Making busta:

Caramelise the sugar

Add the grated coconut

Cook for 20-25 minutes

Stir constantly

Test for readiness and then add the ginger and salt. Blend ingredients.

Pour contents on to grease paper on a flat surface.

Spread flat to the desired height.

Cool for about 10-20 minutes (it must not be too hot or too cold).

Slice with a very sharp knife, cutting the blend to the desired cube sizes.

Cool properly and the delicious treat is ready for consumption.