What Is Tonmtonm?

Tonmtonm is a traditional Caribbean dish from Guadeloupe, made from boiled breadfruit (lamé végétal) that’s pounded until smooth and elastic. It’s traditionally served with kalalou, a rich okra-based sauce often cooked with seafood or crab. This dish is deeply rooted in Caribbean heritage and symbolizes comfort, family, and tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Caribbean flavors
• Naturally gluten-free & plant-based friendly
• Simple ingredients, rich cultural history
• Perfect comfort food with bold, savory sauce
• Ideal for Sunday meals or special gatherings

Ingredients

For the Tonmtonm (Lamé Végétal)

• 1 large breadfruit (lamé végétal)
• Water, for boiling
• Salt, to taste

For the Kalalou (Okra Sauce)

• 2 cups fresh okra, sliced
• 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• ½ tsp allspice (optional)
• 1 small hot pepper (whole, optional)
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Optional additions: crab, shrimp, or saltfish

How to Make Tonmtonm with Kalalou

Step 1: Prepare the Breadfruit

1. Peel the breadfruit and remove the core.
2. Cut into chunks and rinse well.
3. Boil in salted water for 20–25 minutes, until very tender.
4. Drain completely.

Step 2: Pound the Tonmtonm

1. While still hot, place breadfruit in a large mortar or sturdy bowl.
2. Pound using a pestle or heavy spoon until smooth and elastic.
3. Shape into small balls or logs.
4. Cover with a damp cloth to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Kalalou

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, green onion, thyme, and hot pepper until fragrant.
3. Add okra and stir well.
4. Pour in broth and simmer 15–20 minutes until thick and slightly silky.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and allspice.
6. Add seafood if using and cook until done.

How to Serve

Serve warm tonmtonm alongside a generous ladle of kalalou. Traditionally, tonmtonm is eaten without chewing—small pieces are dipped into the sauce and swallowed gently.

Storage Tips

• Tonmtonm is best fresh but can be refrigerated for 1–2 days
• Reheat gently with steam or warm water
• Kalalou stores well refrigerated for up to 3 days

Cultural Tip

Tonmtonm is often prepared during family gatherings and special occasions in Guadeloupe. The pounding process itself is a cultural ritual passed down through generations.