Craving a warm, comforting side dish that's both healthy and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This gluten-free vegan cornbread recipe delivers all the deliciousness of traditional cornbread without the gluten or dairy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking delicious and healthy meal options. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks will master quickly, proving that homemade cooking can be simple and rewarding.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum)
- ¾ cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup sugar (granulated or coconut sugar)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups plant-based milk (soy, almond, or oat work well)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or a cast iron skillet for that extra rustic touch.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the plant-based milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (if using). Whisk well to ensure everything is nicely incorporated.
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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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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 & Serve: Let the cornbread cool slightly in the pan before cutting and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Vegan Cornbread:
- Flour Blend: Using a good quality gluten-free flour blend is key. Make sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps bind the ingredients and create a better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cornbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cornbread towards the end of the baking time. If it's browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins such as chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, or kernels of sweetcorn for extra corn flavor.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Cornbread: Add ½ - 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Cornbread (Vegan): Stir in ½ cup of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Sweet Corn Cornbread: Add 1 cup of frozen or canned sweet corn kernels to the batter.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This gluten-free vegan cornbread recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a versatile side dish that complements various main courses, making it a staple in many healthy diets. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and making this recipe your own! It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and quick dinner ideas.