Craving a side dish that's bursting with flavor and a delightful kick? Look no further! This Famous Dave's Jalapeno Cornbread recipe is the perfect companion to your favorite barbecue, chili, or even soup. It’s incredibly easy to make, delivers amazing results, and is guaranteed to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea, yet still want something delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a great choice for beginner cooks. Let’s get started!
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped jalapenos (adjust to your spice preference!)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
Follow these simple steps and you'll be enjoying this delicious cornbread in no time.
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan with melted butter. This ensures your cornbread doesn't stick and gives it a lovely golden-brown crust.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to prevent lumps in your final product.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, and egg.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread.
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Add Cheese and Jalapenos: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapenos. This is where the flavor party begins!
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to slice neatly.
Cooking Tips for Cornbread Perfection
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapenos to your liking. For a milder cornbread, use less; for extra heat, add more! You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious additions.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This is an approximate calculation and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: Approximately 12g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
Variations to Explore
This recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. Try adding different herbs and spices, like chives, cilantro, or cumin, for a unique flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of peppers, such as poblanos or serranos, to create your own signature jalapeno cornbread. The possibilities are truly endless, making this a versatile and exciting recipe for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike! Enjoy this incredibly delicious and easy side dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.