Indian Cornbread
Indian Cornbread offers a flavorful twist on traditional cornbread with a spicy kick from jalapenos and aromatic garlic. The combination of sweet creamed corn, melted Colby cheese, and crispy bacon drippings creates a moist, cheesy, and savory dish perfect for gatherings or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cornmeal, baking soda, salt, beaten eggs, minced garlic, creamed corn, and milk together in a bowl.
- Pour half of the bacon drippings into the mixture and stir to combine.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour half of the batter into a greased skillet that has the remaining bacon drippings.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Colby cheese and sliced jalapenos over the batter in the skillet.
- Pour the remaining batter into the skillet, then top with the remaining cheese and jalapenos.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until golden and firm.
- Let the cornbread set for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley to the batter. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, replace the yellow cornmeal with a gluten-free cornmeal blend. You can also substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil for a lighter version or use a combination of butter and oil. Make sure to finely chop the jalapenos to control the heat level.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Indian cornbread warm, ideally alongside a hearty soup or stew, such as Lamb Curry And Rice. It also pairs beautifully with BBQ dishes and can be enjoyed with a side of pickled vegetables for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh salad or grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Indian cornbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain its moisture and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Indian Cornbread contains roughly 324 calories, with 7g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1252mg per serving (54% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Colby cheese with other cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well, so it complements the cornbread's texture.
How can I make this cornbread spicier?
To increase the spice level, you can add more jalapenos or include other spicy ingredients like diced green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your heat preference for a delightful kick.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon drippings and using olive oil or melted butter instead. Make sure to check the creamed corn for any non-vegetarian additives, or make your own using fresh corn and cream.
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).