What is "kalamai"

Kalamai may refer to:

• kalamai (dessert), a coconut pudding from the Mariana islands
• an older name for Kalamata, a city in southern Greece
• Kalamai, Uganda, a village in Teso sub-region, Uganda

Kalamai is a traditional Chamorro corn / coconut pudding, sometimes referred to as coconut gelatin (though no gelatin is actually used). Original versions of kalamai called for masa harina, coconut milk, sugar, and water. Subsequently, cornstarch was used to thicken the dessert. Red or green food coloring may be used to color the kalamai, followed by a sprinkling of cinnamon on the surface. A few recipes have added vanilla for additional flavoring.

The kalamai mixture, once thickened, is traditionally poured into a low rimmed tray to a half inch thickness. This dessert is cooled, then sliced into squares. The pudding-like version of kalamai has a very creamy, soft texture. This pudding is served just as a piece of pie is served. The gelatin-like recipe does yield a dessert that is firm like Jell-O. It can be eaten with fingers. Both versions of kalamai have a very distinct coconut and masa harina flavor.