The ultimate comfort food
Let’s be real, cornbread is the GOAT. Whether you’re trying to soak up a spicy chilli or just want a cozy snack, this North American staple is lowkey versatile enough to be the main event. Plus, if you’re gluten-free, this is a major W.
The secret sauce
The key to a top-tier loaf is the cornmeal. Felicity Cloake suggests going for stoneground if you can find it in the world food aisle or a specialized shop. Can’t find it? No worries—just grab some coarse polenta and toast it in a dry pan for a few minutes until it smells amazing. Pro tip: soaking your cornmeal in buttermilk for a couple of hours (or even overnight) takes the flavor to the next level.
The bake
When you're ready to get cooking, preheat your oven to 220C (or 200C fan). To get that signature crisp base, you’ll need a 20cm ovenproof frying pan. If you eat pork, frying it in bacon fat is highkey the move, but butter or oil works too. Mix your soaked meal with the rest of the ingredients—eggs, baking powder, bicarb, and a tiny bit of brown sugar if you want to dial up the sweetness. Pour the batter into the hot, sizzling pan and bake for 20–25 minutes.
Get creative
This recipe is super adaptable. Want to spice things up? Toss in some grated cheddar and chopped jalapeños before baking. You can also mix in bacon bits, feta, or caramelised onions. If you want to really eat, serve it with some butter whipped with hot honey. It’s giving gourmet, no cap.
Why it matters
Cornbread is an incredibly cheap and adaptable base that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a hearty meal, proving you don’t need a complex recipe to have a delicious dinner.
