Why Make This Recipe
Navajo Cornbread is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something special. It’s perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy meal at home. This cornbread offers a unique twist with its added flavors from cheese, chiles, and vegetables, making it not only tasty but also filling!
How to Make Navajo Cornbread
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup canned cream-style corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until it’s smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cream-style corn, shredded cheese, diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and green chiles if you’re using them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Navajo Cornbread
Serve Navajo Cornbread warm, fresh from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or as a side dish for any meal. You can also enjoy it on its own or with some butter for an extra tasty treat!
How to Store Navajo Cornbread
After your cornbread has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, cover it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Navajo Cornbread
- For even more flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the batter.
- You can adjust the amount of green chiles based on your spice preference.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique taste.
Variation
You can customize this cornbread by adding cooked bacon bits, jalapeños for heat, or even various herbs for added flavor. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may change the texture and taste slightly.
2. Is it necessary to add the green chiles?
No, the green chiles are optional. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can leave them out.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a mix of different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
