What To Know
- Whether you enjoy it as a side, a hearty meal, or a sweet treat, cornbread offers endless possibilities for pairing and enjoyment.
- Cornbread can serve as a flavorful base for tacos or burritos, adding a touch of sweetness and texture.
- Wrap cornbread in aluminum foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Cornbread, a beloved Southern staple and culinary gem, is a versatile and flavorful bread that finds its place on tables across the globe. Its distinctive sweet and savory taste makes it a perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes. Whether you enjoy it as a side, a hearty meal, or a sweet treat, cornbread offers endless possibilities for pairing and enjoyment.
Breakfast Companions
Cornbread is an ideal breakfast companion, providing a warm and satisfying start to the day. Pair it with:
- Eggs: Scrambled, fried, or poached eggs complement cornbread’s sweetness perfectly.
- Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage adds a salty contrast that elevates the flavors.
- Grits: Creamy grits and cornbread create a classic Southern breakfast combination.
- Syrup or Honey: Drizzle sweet syrup or honey over cornbread for a delightful treat.
Lunch and Dinner Pairings
Cornbread shines as a versatile side dish for lunch and dinner. Consider serving it with:
- Chili or Soup: Warm up with a hearty bowl of chili or soup, accompanied by slices of cornbread for dipping.
- Meatloaf or Roasted Chicken: Cornbread’s sweetness balances the richness of meatloaf or roasted chicken.
- Salads: Add a warm and savory element to salads by serving cornbread croutons or crumbled cornbread.
- Tacos or Burritos: Cornbread can serve as a flavorful base for tacos or burritos, adding a touch of sweetness and texture.
Sweet Delights
Cornbread’s versatility extends to sweet treats as well. Enjoy it with:
- Fruit: Fresh or canned fruit, such as berries, peaches, or apples, creates a refreshing and vibrant pairing.
- Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Top cornbread with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
- Butter and Honey: Spread butter and drizzle honey over cornbread for a classic and comforting indulgence.
- Cinnamon or Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon or sugar on cornbread for a sweet and aromatic treat.
Culinary Variations
Cornbread’s versatility allows for endless culinary variations, including:
- Jalapeño Cornbread: Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Cheddar Cornbread: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy delight.
- Cornbread Stuffing: Crumble cornbread and use it as a flavorful stuffing for poultry or vegetables.
- Cornbread Muffins: Bake cornbread in muffin cups for a convenient and portable treat.
How to Make Cornbread
Making cornbread is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the best way to store cornbread?
A: Store cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I freeze cornbread?
A: Yes, wrap cornbread well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: How can I reheat cornbread?
A: Wrap cornbread in aluminum foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
