Barbecue Cornbread
A moist, flavorful cornbread with a touch of sweetness, perfect for barbecues or casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy classic Southern comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in buttermilk and flour until just combined.
- Pour batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes to an hour until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly spicier cornbread, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure your shortening is softened for easier mixing. This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Barbecue Cornbread alongside grilled meats or barbecue dishes for a perfect meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad. Consider crumbling it over chili for added texture and flavor, or serve it with honey or butter for breakfast. It makes a delicious snack on its own too!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Cornbread contains roughly 288 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1023mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cornbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cornbread ahead of time. It can be baked and stored in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven. The cornbread tastes great even after a day or two, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
What can I add to this cornbread for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like shredded cheese, cooked bacon bits, or herbs such as chives or cilantro. For a sweeter variant, mix in some corn kernels or diced jalapeños for a sweet and spicy kick. These additions can elevate the dish significantly.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Barbecue Cornbread is vegetarian-friendly, as it does not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients. It’s a great side dish for vegetarian recipes or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack. Just verify that your shortening is vegetarian if you're strictly adhering to dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).