Are you ready to experience cornbread like never before? Forget those dry, crumbly disappointments from a box. This recipe uses freshly milled cornmeal for an unbelievably moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible cornbread that captures the essence of summer. It's the perfect side for barbecues, chili, or simply enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, transforming a simple meal into a delicious homemade experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups freshly milled fine yellow cornmeal (you can find this at many health food stores or mill your own!)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan. This simple step ensures your cornbread releases easily from the pan.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the freshly milled cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure even baking.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread. A few lumps are perfectly okay.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking 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 Fresh Milled Cornbread:
- Freshly Milled is Key: The flavor difference between freshly milled cornmeal and store-bought is remarkable. If you can, invest in freshly milled cornmeal – it makes all the difference!
- Don't Overmix: As mentioned earlier, overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough texture. Mix until just combined.
- Buttermilk Magic: Buttermilk adds a delightful tang and moisture to the cornbread. If you don't have buttermilk, you can 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.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to your preference. For a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
Variations:
- Spicy Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the batter for a kick.
- Cheesy Cornbread: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese for a savory twist.
- Herb Cornbread: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 4-5g
This fresh milled cornbread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to every home cook, offering a delicious and healthy meal option that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade goodness!