Are you craving the comforting taste of warm cornbread but need a dairy-free option? Look no further! This recipe delivers all the delightful crumbly texture and sweet corn flavor you love, without any dairy products. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful side dish for your favorite chili, or even a satisfying breakfast treat. This easy recipe is surprisingly adaptable, making it a perfect choice for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a healthy and delicious twist on a classic. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
- ¾ cup yellow cornmeal
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 cup dairy-free milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk all work well)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan option: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or a cast iron skillet for that rustic charm.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, oil, and egg (or flax egg).
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Cornbread:
- Don't Overmix: As mentioned earlier, overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cornbread. Mix until just combined.
- Fresh Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can result in a flat cornbread.
- Cast Iron Magic: For extra crispy edges and a wonderfully rustic flavor, bake your cornbread in a cast iron skillet.
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins! Chopped jalapeños, chives, or shredded cheddar cheese (if not strictly dairy-free) would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for a kick.
- Sweet Cornbread: Increase the sugar to ¾ cup for a sweeter cornbread. You could also add some blueberries or cranberries.
- Savory Cornbread: Omit the sugar and add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory side dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250 (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: Around 8-10g
- Protein: Around 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
This dairy-free cornbread recipe is a fantastic example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It's a versatile side dish that fits seamlessly into various diets and cuisines. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and making this recipe your own!