Quick Corn Bread

Quick Corn Bread Recipe - Easy to Make and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cornbread is a classic American dish that is loved for its sweet and savory flavors. This quick and easy cornbread recipe is perfect for a side dish or a snack.

History

Cornbread has been a staple in American cuisine for centuries. It originated from Native American tribes who used corn as a primary ingredient in their diet. When European settlers arrived in America, they adopted the cornbread recipe and added their own twist to it.

Ingredients

1 cup of cornmeal
1 cup of whole wheat flour
3 tsp of baking powder
1 tbsp of honey
1.5 cups of warm water
1 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp of ground nutmeg

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.
If desired, add optional spices.
Combine honey and warm water, then add to the dry ingredients. Stir just until mixed.
Pour the mixture into a lightly oiled or non-stick 8-inch square baking dish.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 20 minutes.
Helpful hints: You can add various spices for different flavors.
You can also add finely chopped or grated vegetables to the mixture.

Variations

Try adding finely chopped onion, finely chopped green pepper, chopped green chilis, chopped pimento, grated carrots, or grated zucchini.
These ingredients can be used alone or in various combinations to enhance the flavor of this simple and delicious corn bread.
If you are using a nonstick baking pan, there is no need to grease it beforehand.
For a lighter texture, increase the amount of baking powder to 4 tsp.
Fill the greased or lined muffin tins two-thirds full with the batter.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
Add chopped jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy cornbread.
Substitute the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ingredients to ensure even distribution.

- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough and dense cornbread.

- For a sweeter cornbread, you can add more honey or sugar to the batter.

- To add a crunchy texture, you can sprinkle some cornmeal on top of the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cornbread warm with a dollop of butter or honey for added flavor. It pairs well with chili, soups, or barbecue dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

All-purpose flour can be used instead of whole wheat flour.

- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply add the wet ingredients and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the cornbread into squares or triangles for a visually appealing presentation. Serve on a wooden board or a decorative plate.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the cornbread with a hearty stew, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 150 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Cornmeal: 23g

- Whole wheat flour: 24g

- Honey: 17g

Fats

- Cornmeal: 1g

- Whole wheat flour: 1g

Proteins

- Cornmeal: 2g

- Whole wheat flour: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Cornmeal: Iron, magnesium, phosphorus

- Whole wheat flour: Vitamin B6, magnesium, zinc

Alergens

Contains gluten

Summary

This cornbread recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in fats and calories, making it a healthy option for a side dish.

Summary

This quick cornbread recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a snack. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a perfect addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Quick Corn Bread. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new and exciting to try. As I shuffled through the worn and stained index cards, my eyes landed on a faded piece of paper tucked into the back of the box. The words "Quick Corn Bread" were scrawled across the top in my grandmother's elegant handwriting.

I could almost hear her voice in my mind, guiding me through the steps of the recipe. I remembered the way she used to stand in the kitchen, a whirlwind of activity as she cooked up a feast for our family gatherings. Her recipes were never written down; they were passed down through generations, each one a cherished heirloom.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The recipe called for simple, everyday ingredients - cornmeal, flour, milk, eggs, and a touch of sugar. It was a reminder of a time when cooking was a labor of love, a way to nourish and care for those you loved.

I could picture my grandmother in her kitchen, a flour-dusted apron tied around her waist, as she mixed the batter for her famous corn bread. She would hum a tune as she worked, her hands moving with practiced ease. I could almost smell the warm, comforting aroma of the bread baking in the oven, filling the house with a sense of home and belonging.

I knew that I had to try making the Quick Corn Bread for myself. It was more than just a recipe; it was a connection to my past, a way to honor my grandmother's legacy. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions with care and attention to detail.

As I mixed the batter, I could feel my grandmother's presence in the kitchen with me. I could almost hear her voice as she whispered words of encouragement and guidance. I poured the batter into a greased pan and slid it into the oven, the sweet scent of corn filling the air.

When the timer dinged, I carefully removed the pan from the oven and let it cool on the counter. The bread was golden brown and fragrant, just like my grandmother used to make. I cut a slice and took a bite, savoring the warm, crumbly texture and sweet, corn flavor.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I thought of my grandmother, gone but never forgotten. Her recipes lived on in me, a testament to the love and care she had poured into each and every dish. I knew that whenever I made her Quick Corn Bread, I would feel her presence in the kitchen, guiding me with her wisdom and grace.

And so, as I sat down to enjoy a slice of warm corn bread, I said a silent thank you to my grandmother for passing down her recipes and her love. The Quick Corn Bread was more than just a dish; it was a connection to my past and a reminder of the power of food to bring us together, even across generations. My grandmother's spirit lived on in every bite, and I knew that her legacy would continue to nourish and inspire me for years to come.