Broccoli Cornbread

Delicious Broccoli Cornbread Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Broccoli Cornbread is a delightful twist on the traditional cornbread recipe, incorporating the goodness of broccoli, the creaminess of cottage cheese, and the heartiness of cornbread mix. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a nutritious touch to their meals without compromising on taste. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side or enjoyed as a light meal on its own.

History

The Broccoli Cornbread recipe is a modern take on traditional cornbread, a staple in Southern American cuisine. The addition of vegetables to cornbread is a relatively recent innovation, aimed at enhancing its nutritional value and flavor profile. This particular recipe, with its inclusion of broccoli and cottage cheese, likely emerged in the late 20th century as part of a broader trend towards healthier eating.

Ingredients

1 package of Jiffy cornbread mix
2 cups of chopped cooked broccoli
1 cup of cottage cheese
4 beaten eggs
1 stick of margarine
1 tsp of salt
1 finely chopped onion

How to prepare

Mix the ingredients together.
Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 25 – 30 minutes.
Cut into squares and serve.

Variations

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also incorporate other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure the broccoli is finely chopped and well-drained to prevent the cornbread from becoming too moist. Using room temperature eggs and cottage cheese can help the ingredients blend more smoothly. For a richer flavor, you can substitute melted butter for margarine.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli Cornbread can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with soups, stews, and salads, or can be enjoyed on its own as a quick snack.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure even cooking and a golden crust, preheat your oven and use a light-colored baking dish. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining can also help achieve a more uniform texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese or sour cream can serve as suitable substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The batter for Broccoli Cornbread can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Additionally, the cooked cornbread freezes well for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Broccoli Cornbread cut into squares or wedges, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This cornbread pairs beautifully with barbecue dishes, chili, or roasted meats. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a hearty vegetable stew or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Broccoli Cornbread should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Broccoli Cornbread contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a side dish or snack.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Broccoli Cornbread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbs in this recipe is the Jiffy cornbread mix, complemented by the natural sugars found in broccoli and onions.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being the eggs, cottage cheese, and margarine. Opting for low-fat cottage cheese can help reduce the overall fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of Broccoli Cornbread offers around 9 grams of protein, contributed by the eggs, cottage cheese, and to a lesser extent, the broccoli. This makes it a good option for a protein-rich side dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Broccoli Cornbread is a good source of vitamins A and C, thanks to the broccoli, and several B vitamins provided by the cornbread mix and eggs. It also contains minerals such as calcium and iron, primarily from the cottage cheese and eggs.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy (cottage cheese), and gluten (cornbread mix). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Broccoli Cornbread is a nutritious, balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a healthier alternative to traditional cornbread, with the added benefits of vegetables.

Summary

Broccoli Cornbread is a nutritious, flavorful, and versatile dish that combines the comfort of cornbread with the health benefits of broccoli. It's easy to make, customizable with various add-ins, and suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether served as a side or a main, it's sure to be a hit at any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. She had just taken a pan of golden brown broccoli cornbread out of the oven, and the aroma that filled the room was simply intoxicating.

Margaret had a knack for finding the most delicious and unique recipes, and this one was no exception. As I watched her effortlessly mix together the ingredients, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I asked Margaret where she had gotten the recipe, and she told me that it had been passed down to her from her own grandmother. It was a family favorite, she said, and she was more than happy to share it with me. She handed me a piece of the warm cornbread, and as soon as I took a bite, I was hooked.

The flavors of the sweet corn and tender broccoli melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. I knew that I had to add this recipe to my own collection, and Margaret was kind enough to walk me through the steps.

As we worked together in her kitchen, she shared stories of her grandmother and the special memories they had shared over this cornbread. She told me how her grandmother would make it for family gatherings, and how everyone would eagerly anticipate its arrival at the table.

I listened intently as Margaret explained the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to properly prepare each component. She stressed the importance of patience and care in the kitchen, and I could see the passion she had for cooking shining through in every word she spoke.

After a few hours of mixing, stirring, and baking, the cornbread was finally ready. I eagerly took a bite of the finished product, and the taste transported me back to that warm summer day in Margaret's kitchen.

From that moment on, broccoli cornbread became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Each time I took a bite, I would think of Margaret and her grandmother, and the special bond they shared over this beloved recipe.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients to make it my own. But no matter how many variations I try, the essence of the dish always remains the same.

I am grateful to Margaret for introducing me to this wonderful recipe, and for showing me the joy that can be found in the simple act of cooking. As I pass this recipe down to future generations, I hope that they too will find comfort and happiness in its warm, savory embrace.

And so, every time I make a pan of broccoli cornbread, I am reminded of the special bond that can be formed over a shared love of food. It is a reminder of the power of tradition, and of the joy that can be found in a simple recipe made with love.