American Indian Sunflower Seed Cakes Recipe

Ingredients for American Indian Sunflower Seed Cakes

• Sunflower Seeds
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cornmeal
• Maple Syrup
• Vegetable oil, for frying

How to Make American Indian Sunflower Seed Cakes

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups sunflower seeds and 2 cups water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until seeds are tender.
3. Drain the cooked sunflower seeds thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Using a food processor or blender, grind the seeds until they form a coarse meal.
5. In a large bowl, combine the ground sunflower seeds with 1 cup cornmeal.
6. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup maple syrup (or other sweetener), 1 tablespoon at a time, until a stiff dough forms. Add more syrup if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Shape the dough into 15 flat cakes, approximately 3 inches in diameter.
8. Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
9. Carefully place the cakes in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
11. Serve the sunflower seed cakes hot and enjoy!