The aroma of freshly baked Navajo cornbread wafts through the air, beckoning you to take that first glorious bite. Imagine a golden crust giving way to a soft, fluffy interior with a subtly sweet taste that dances across your palate. comforting Southern casserole Perfectly paired with chili or enjoyed on its own, this delightful bread brings warmth and comfort to any meal. classic meatloaf recipe. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
I recall the first time I tried making Navajo cornbread; my kitchen was transformed into a bustling hub of flavors and laughter. Friends gathered around, eagerly waiting to dig in as the enticing scent enveloped us all in a warm embrace. It’s a dish that feels like home, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The ease of preparation makes this Navajo cornbread perfect for any skill level. Its unique flavor profile balances sweetness with a hint of savory goodness. Visually appealing with its golden crust, it adds charm to every meal. Versatile enough to be enjoyed alone or as an accompaniment to various dishes. [/info_box]
Friends still rave about that night; it was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Yellow Cornmeal: This is the star ingredient; choose stone-ground cornmeal for authentic texture and flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: A bit of flour adds structure; using unbleached flour enhances the taste.
Baking Powder: Essential for fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all flavors; don’t skip this crucial step.
Sugar: Just enough sweetness balances the savory elements; adjust according to your taste. savory egg muffins.
Milk: Whole milk creates richness; feel free to substitute with buttermilk for added tang.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind everything together; they also add moisture and richness.
Melted Butter: Adds flavor and moisture; go ahead and use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while greasing an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together yellow cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until fully combined—this will create a delightful base. For more inspiration, check out this flavorful street corn chicken bowl recipe.
Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth—this creamy mixture will bring everything together beautifully.
Combine mixtures: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined—don’t stir too much or your cornbread will turn out dense.
Pour into prepared pan: Carefully pour the batter into your greased baking pan and smooth out the top—it should look invitingly glossy before baking.
Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean—resist peeking too often!
Cool down: Once done, remove from oven and let it cool slightly in the pan before slicing—it’s hard not to dive right in at this point!
Serve hot: Cut into squares and serve warm with butter or alongside your favorite chili—this step is pure bliss!
Enjoy each bite of this fluffy Navajo cornbread as it melts in your mouth!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Navajo cornbread is a delightful twist on traditional cornbread. Its unique texture and flavor can elevate any meal. The subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with savory dishes, making it a versatile choice for any gathering. Don’t forget to enjoy it warm with honey or butter! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing dry ingredients, then whisk in wet ingredients until smooth. Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding diced green chiles for a spicy kick or sweet corn for extra texture. Southwest-inspired breakfast option You can also replace some flour with whole wheat for a healthier option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To get the perfect rise, make sure your baking powder is fresh. Avoid over-mixing the batter to keep it fluffy. For a sweeter touch, add a bit of sugar to the mix or drizzle honey on top when serving. [/info_box]
Sharing my first attempt at making Navajo cornbread was priceless; I almost burned it, but my friends loved it anyway!
FAQ
What makes Navajo cornbread different from regular cornbread?
Navajo cornbread has a unique texture and slightly sweet flavor due to the use of cornmeal.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends successfully.
How long does Navajo cornbread stay fresh?
Stored properly, it can last up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge.
Navajo Cornbread
Navajo cornbread is a delightful, warm bread with a golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior that’s slightly sweet. This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with chili or can be enjoyed on its own, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its easy preparation, this recipe is suitable for all skill levels, inviting everyone to create their own delicious memories.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 9 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving warm with butter or chili.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Native American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, consider adding diced green chiles or sweet corn. - To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
