Are you looking for a versatile ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than cornmeal! This humble grain can be used in everything from sweet treats like waffles and cake, to savory dishes like fried fish and shrimp tacos. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious cornmeal recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic Southern-style cornbread to innovative twists on traditional dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, cornmeal is an ingredient that’s easy to work with and can add depth and texture to a wide range of dishes. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile – so don’t be afraid to experiment and come up with your own creations!
In the following pages, we’ll dive into some of our favorite cornmeal recipes, from breakfast to dinner and everything in between.
Southern-style cornbread
Moist, crumbly, and oh-so-satisfying, this traditional Southern-style cornbread is a staple for any gathering. With its rich yellow color and buttery aroma, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– Honey or maple syrup, optional (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, baking soda, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter to egg mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornmeal pancakes with maple syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful cornmeal pancakes, perfectly paired with a drizzle of rich maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on batch size)
Serve: Warm pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup and enjoy!
Cheesy cornmeal muffins
These savory muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, and the addition of cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, eggs, and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornmeal-crusted fried fish
Satisfy your seafood cravings with this crispy and flavorful fried fish recipe, featuring a cornmeal crust that adds a delightful texture.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or cod work well)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your crispy cornmeal-crusted fried fish with a side of your favorite accompaniments!
Polenta with mushrooms and herbs
This comforting side dish combines tender polenta with a rich mixture of sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs, and a hint of cream. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or serving as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta.
2. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until polenta is creamy and tender.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme and rosemary; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
7. Serve polenta topped with mushroom mixture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornmeal waffles with berries
Start your day off right with a crispy and fluffy cornmeal waffle topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook waffles according to manufacturer’s instructions, about 3-5 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornmeal pizza crust
Start your pizza journey with a crispy cornmeal crust that adds a delightful twist to the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Place the dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone sprinkled with cornmeal.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the crust.
8. Top with your favorite pizza toppings and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cornmeal-crusted chicken tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful chicken tenders coated in a crunchy cornmeal crust. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these tender bites are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken tender in the beaten eggs, then coat in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry coated tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornmeal and blueberry scones
A twist on traditional scones, these sweet cornmeal and blueberry treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and honey. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each scone.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cornmeal-crusted onion rings
Elevate your snack game with these addictive onion rings coated in a crispy cornmeal crust. Perfect for movie nights or as a side dish, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat. Place coated rings on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including resting time)
Cornmeal porridge with cinnamon
Start your day with a comforting bowl of cornmeal porridge infused with the warm, sweet flavor of cinnamon. This simple recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or as a soothing snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon and salt (if using) to the mixture.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until porridge thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornmeal and jalapeño hush puppies
These crispy fried treats combine the sweetness of cornmeal with a kick from jalapeños, making them a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Southern-style dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chopped jalapeño and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop the batter by tablespoonfuls into the hot oil, leaving space between each hush puppy.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (5-6 minutes per batch).
Cornmeal-crusted zucchini fries
Get ready to transform your favorite summer squash into a crispy, savory snack! These cornmeal-crusted zucchini fries are the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into fry shapes, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip each zucchini fry into the beaten egg, then coat in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated zucchini fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornmeal and honey biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits infused with the warmth of cornmeal and sweetness of honey – a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in honey and buttermilk until dough forms a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornmeal-crusted shrimp tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crispy cornmeal coating, and tangy slaw. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw (cabbage, carrots, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt)
– Avocado or sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Toss shrimp with lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Dip each shrimp in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto tortillas, topping with slaw and avocado/sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornmeal and cheddar drop biscuits
These savory biscuits are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, stews, or chilies. With the warmth of cornmeal and the richness of cheddar, they’re sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornmeal.
3. Add butter, cheddar cheese, baking powder, and salt. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each biscuit.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornmeal-crusted okra
A Southern twist on traditional okra, these crispy bites are perfect for snacking or as a side dish. The cornmeal crust adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavor of the okra.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge okra slices in the cornmeal mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip each coated okra slice in the beaten egg, then coat again with the cornmeal mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the okra bites for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Cornmeal and apple cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the warmth of cornmeal with the sweetness of apples, perfect for a cozy fall treat or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, eggs, melted butter, diced apples, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 mouth-watering cornmeal recipes! From classic Southern-style cornbread to innovative dishes like polenta with mushrooms and herbs, there’s something for every occasion. Indulge in sweet treats like cornmeal waffles with berries or cornmeal and blueberry scones, or try savory options like cheesy cornmeal muffins or cornmeal-crusted fried fish. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to impress.
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