Are you ready to elevate your cornbread game? Forget dense, crumbly loaves! This recipe for lace cornbread delivers a delicate, almost ethereal texture, with crispy edges and a subtly sweet interior. It's the perfect side dish for chili, soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a healthy and delicious twist on a classic. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Generously grease a cast iron skillet (8-10 inches) or a baking sheet. This is key for achieving that perfect crispy edge.
Dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents for a light and airy texture.
Wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vegetable oil. The buttermilk adds moisture and tanginess, enhancing the flavor profile of the cornbread.
Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; don't overmix. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cornbread. A few lumps are okay!
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes, as ovens can vary.
Cool & Serve: Let the cornbread cool slightly in the skillet before slicing and serving. This allows it to firm up, making it easier to cut and serve those beautiful, delicate pieces.
Tips for the Best Lace Cornbread:
- Don't overmix: As mentioned earlier, overmixing leads to tough cornbread. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Use cast iron: A cast iron skillet provides excellent heat distribution and helps create those wonderfully crispy edges. If you don't have one, a baking sheet works well too.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, increase the sugar to 1/3 cup.
- Add-ins: Feel free to experiment! Add shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeños, corn kernels, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Lace Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Lace Cornbread: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese along with the wet ingredients.
- Jalapeño Cheddar Lace Cornbread: Combine the spice and cheese variations for a flavorful and exciting twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This recipe for lace cornbread offers a delightful balance of flavor and texture. It’s a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal addition, and a delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this simple yet elegant homemade cooking experience!