Are you craving a delicious side dish that's both comforting and exciting? Look no further than this Mexican Cornbread with Jiffy Mix! This recipe takes the classic cornbread and gives it a vibrant, Southwestern twist, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a burst of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. Get ready to experience the best of both worlds – the simplicity of Jiffy mix and the zesty kick of Mexican spices! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, especially if you're looking for quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/4 cup chopped green chilies (canned)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or a muffin tin. This simple step ensures your cornbread doesn't stick and creates a beautifully golden crust.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vegetable oil until well combined. This ensures a smooth batter and prevents dry spots in your cornbread.
Step 3: Mix the Dry and Wet: Add the Jiffy corn muffin mix, drained corn, green chilies, cheddar cheese, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough cornbread, so be careful not to overwork the batter.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes – ovens can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.
Step 5: Cool and Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious side dish warm, alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired meal.
Tips for the Best Mexican Cornbread:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference. For a spicier cornbread, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend would be delicious additions.
- Add some heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Remember to remove the seeds and membranes for less heat if preferred.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can make it vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) and using vegan cheese and oil.
Variations:
- Creamy Cornbread: Stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream or crème fraîche along with the wet ingredients for a richer, more moist cornbread.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- Bacon Cornbread: Crumble cooked bacon into the batter for a savory and satisfying twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on an 8-serving recipe and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This Mexican Cornbread with Jiffy Mix is a truly versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to your taste preferences. It’s a delicious and simple side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of this easy and healthy meal! It's a fantastic recipe to add to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. This quick and easy cornbread is sure to become a family favorite!