Blue Corn Scones

Blue Corn Scones Recipe - Authentic Native American Cuisine

Region / culture: Native America | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Blue Corn Scones are a delightful twist on the traditional scone, incorporating the nutty flavor and nutritional benefits of blue cornmeal. This recipe offers a unique taste experience, blending the rustic charm of blue corn with the classic scone texture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these scones are sure to impress with their distinctive color and flavor.

History

The use of blue corn, a staple in Native American cuisine, dates back centuries. It is revered for its higher protein content and unique flavor compared to yellow or white corn. The adaptation of blue corn into scone recipes is a relatively modern twist, marrying traditional Native American ingredients with British culinary staples. This fusion creates a culturally rich and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of roasted blue (or yellow) cornmeal
1.75 cups of all-purpose flour
0.33 tsp of baking powder
0.25 tsp of salt
1 stick of chilled butter
0.25 cup of light brown sugar
2 tbsp of egg mix + 0.25 cup of water (or 1 egg)
2 tbsp + 2 tsp of instant nonfat dry milk + 0.5 cup of water (or 0.5 cup of non-fat milk)
0.5 tsp of vanilla extract

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Grease and flour a baking sheet.
In a bowl, stir the dry ingredients together. Cut the butter into the dry mixture using a pastry blender until it forms a coarse meal.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg with milk, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Stir this mixture into the dry mixture until the dough holds together.
Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface, then pat it into an 8” circle and place it on the baking sheet.
Using a pizza cutter or a serrated knife, score the circle into 8 wedges.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until nicely browned.
Serve with honey, fruit, or jam. These scones are best enjoyed straight from the oven, but they are still great the next day.

Variations

Consider adding dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor. For a savory version, reduce the sugar and incorporate shredded cheese and herbs.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture, ensure the butter is cold before incorporating it into the dry ingredients. This helps create a flaky scone. Additionally, avoid over-kneading the dough to prevent the scones from becoming tough. For a more pronounced blue corn flavor and color, you can increase the amount of blue cornmeal, adjusting the flour quantity accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

These scones are best served warm, with a dollop of honey, fruit preserves, or fresh fruit on the side. For a savory twist, serve them alongside a hearty soup or chili.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is "cutting" the butter into the dry ingredients, which helps distribute fat evenly without melting it, resulting in a tender, flaky texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Vegan alternatives, such as plant-based butter and milk, can be used for dietary restrictions.

Make Ahead Tips

The scone dough can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Simply shape, score, and bake the next morning for fresh scones with minimal effort.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these scones on a rustic wooden board with a selection of jams, honey, and clotted cream for an elegant brunch spread.

Pairing Recommendations

Blue Corn Scones pair beautifully with a robust coffee or a light, floral tea. For a complete meal, consider a fruit salad or a savory egg dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each Blue Corn Scone contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a satisfying snack or part of a balanced breakfast.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Blue Corn Scones contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the all-purpose flour and blue cornmeal, providing energy for the day ahead.

Fats

These scones contain about 10 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the butter. Using unsalted butter helps control the sodium content, and the fat contributes to the scones' moist, tender texture.

Proteins

Blue Corn Scones offer around 4 grams of protein per serving. The protein comes from the egg, milk, and to a lesser extent, the blue cornmeal and flour, contributing to the nutritional balance of the recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

Blue cornmeal is a good source of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give it its distinctive color. These scones also provide iron and B vitamins from the flour and egg, supporting energy metabolism and red blood cell formation.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten (from wheat flour), dairy (from butter and milk), and eggs, which are common allergens. Those with sensitivities should take note or consider substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Blue Corn Scones offer a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with beneficial vitamins and minerals. They are a flavorful, nutritious option for those looking for a unique twist on the traditional scone.

Summary

Blue Corn Scones are a delightful and nutritious addition to any meal, offering a unique twist on a classic recipe. With their rich history, versatile serving options, and the ability to customize, they're sure to become a favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a tasty snack later on, these scones bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Santa Fe, New Mexico. My love for baking had already begun to blossom, and I was always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try.

One warm summer day, I was wandering through the local Farmer's Market, marveling at the colorful array of fruits and vegetables on display. As I strolled past the various stalls, a sweet aroma caught my attention. I followed my nose to a quaint little booth where a kind older woman was selling an assortment of baked goods.

Among the tantalizing treats on offer were blue corn scones. I had never heard of such a thing before, but I was immediately drawn to their unique hue and the rich, earthy aroma that wafted from them. I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Maria, and asked her about the recipe for the scones.

Maria's eyes twinkled as she shared the story of how she had learned to make the scones from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She explained that the blue cornmeal used in the scones was a traditional ingredient in New Mexican cuisine, prized for its sweet, nutty flavor and vibrant color.

Intrigued by Maria's description, I begged her to share the recipe with me. She generously agreed, handing me a tattered piece of paper covered in faded ink. I studied the handwritten instructions with eager anticipation, taking note of the careful measurements and precise instructions.

That evening, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my grandmother's cozy kitchen. The scent of baking scones filled the air, mingling with the warm, familiar aroma of cinnamon and vanilla. As I pulled the scones from the oven, their golden crust glistened in the soft light of the setting sun.

I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. I broke off a piece of the scone and took a tentative bite. The texture was crumbly and tender, with a subtle sweetness that danced on my tongue. The flavor of the blue cornmeal was unlike anything I had ever experienced, rich and nutty with a hint of sweetness that lingered on my palate.

I knew then that this recipe was something truly special, a treasure that I would cherish and pass down to future generations. Over the years, I have made these blue corn scones countless times, sharing them with friends and family who never fail to be amazed by their unique flavor and texture.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day at the Farmer's Market, I am filled with gratitude for Maria and her generosity in sharing her family recipe with me. The memory of those blue corn scones will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

And so, I continue to bake these scones with love and care, honoring the tradition that Maria passed down to me so many years ago. Each batch is a tribute to the generations of women who came before me, their legacy preserved in the simple act of baking. And as I take a bite of a warm, freshly baked scone, I am transported back to that sunny day in Santa Fe, where a chance encounter with a kind stranger changed the course of my culinary journey forever.