Harvest Cornmeal Corn

Harvest Cornmeal Corn is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the richness of cornmeal with the sweetness of creamed corn. This simple, flavorful recipe is perfect as a side dish for family dinners, holiday meals, or any occasion where you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing treat. The cornmeal gives it a slightly crumbly texture, while the creamed corn adds moisture and a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 can creamed corn

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add creamed corn: Gently fold in the can of creamed corn to incorporate it evenly throughout the batter.
6. Pour into baking dish: Transfer the batter into the greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Serve: Let the cornmeal corn cool slightly before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy cornmeal: Add 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) to the batter for a cheesy version of this dish.
• Spicy twist: For a little heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter.
• Sweeten it up: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the sugar to 3/4 cup and serve with a drizzle of honey.
• Herb-infused: Add a teaspoon of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and denser texture.
2. Can I use fresh corn instead of creamed corn?
   Fresh corn can be used, but it will not provide the same creamy texture. You may want to add a bit of milk or heavy cream to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it when ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking and cooling, slice and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
5. Can I substitute vegetable oil with another oil?
   You can use melted butter, olive oil, or even coconut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil, depending on your taste preferences.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
   This dish pairs wonderfully with meats like fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or grilled sausages. It also makes a great accompaniment to soups and stews.
7. Can I add vegetables to the batter?
   Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or even spinach for a boost of flavor and nutrition.
8. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Replace the milk with a non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) and use a dairy-free alternative to the creamed corn or make your own.
9. Can I use a different type of canned corn?
   If you don’t have creamed corn, you can use regular canned corn, but you may need to add extra milk or cream to maintain the consistency.
10. How do I know when the dish is done baking?
    The dish is done when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick or knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If there is any batter left on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes.

Conclusion

Harvest Cornmeal Corn is a simple, comforting dish that combines the earthy taste of cornmeal with the richness of creamed corn. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads, this dish is easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite meal, it’s a great way to add some hearty, flavorful variety to your table.

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