Cornbread, perfect as a side dish for chili, BBQ

Introduction

Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chili, BBQ, and a variety of other meals. This recipe delivers a slightly sweet, tender cornbread with a golden crust that’s sure to please at any gathering. Easy to make and delicious, it’s a staple that you’ll want to keep in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the pan)
• 2 large eggs

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or a cast-iron skillet with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid dense cornbread.
5. Bake the Cornbread: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or as a side to your favorite meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 9 servings. The total time to prepare and bake the cornbread is about 30-35 minutes.

Variations

• Buttermilk Cornbread: Substitute buttermilk for the regular milk to add a tangy flavor.
• Cheesy Cornbread: Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Cornbread: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Herbed Cornbread: Mix in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat cornbread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but the cornbread will be denser and have a different texture.
2. Can I make cornbread ahead of time? Yes, cornbread can be baked ahead of time and stored. Reheat before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can use any type of milk, including almond or oat milk, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
4. Why is my cornbread dense? Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cornbread. Mix until just combined.
5. How can I make cornbread more moist? Use buttermilk or add a bit more melted butter to the batter.
6. Can I add ingredients like corn kernels or bacon? Yes, you can mix in ingredients like cooked bacon or corn kernels for added texture and flavor.
7. What’s the best way to cut cornbread? Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before cutting to avoid crumbling.
8. Can I use a different pan? Yes, you can use a muffin tin, loaf pan, or any oven-safe dish, but baking times may vary.
9. What should I do if my cornbread is too crumbly? Ensure you measure your ingredients correctly and don’t overmix the batter.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan, but adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This cornbread recipe is a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal. Its slightly sweet flavor and tender texture make it a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty chili or BBQ, this cornbread is sure to be a hit. With easy storage and reheating options, it’s a practical choice for any meal plan. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade cornbread with this straightforward recipe!

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