Cornbread Recipe with Jalapenos: A Spicy Southern Delight

Cornbread with jalapenos offers a delightful kick to a classic Southern comfort food. This recipe combines the sweetness of cornmeal with the fiery heat of jalapenos, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow guide will help you create a delicious and perfectly textured cornbread that’s sure to impress.

The Perfect Cornbread with Jalapenos Recipe

This cornbread with jalapenos recipe is simple yet incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or even a holiday feast. The secret to a moist and tender cornbread lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients, and of course, the quality of your cornmeal. I recommend using a medium-grind cornmeal for the best texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium grind)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapenos (remove seeds for less heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in the chopped jalapenos.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Mixing Jalapeno Cornbread Batter

Tips for the Best Cornbread with Jalapenos

A few simple tweaks can elevate your cornbread with jalapenos from good to exceptional. Here are some tips from my years of baking experience:

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cornbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use fresh jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos provide the best flavor and heat. If you don’t have fresh, pickled jalapenos can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to drain them well before chopping.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder cornbread, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping. For extra heat, leave some or all of the seeds intact.
• Add some cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese to the batter.

Cornbread with Jalapenos Baking in the Oven

“Using buttermilk is essential for moist cornbread,” says renowned baker, Amelia Hearthstone. “Its acidity reacts with the baking soda, creating a tender crumb.”

Serving Suggestions for Cornbread with Jalapenos

Cornbread with jalapenos is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. It’s a natural complement to chili, barbecue, and Southern-style dishes. You can also serve it with butter, honey, or even a dollop of sour cream.

• Chili night: The spicy kick of the jalapenos complements the rich flavors of chili perfectly. Crumble some cornbread into your chili for added texture and flavor.
• Barbecue feast: Serve alongside your favorite barbecued meats and sides. The sweetness of the cornbread balances the smoky flavors of the barbecue.
• Soup and stew: A warm slice of cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to a hearty soup or stew.
• Breakfast or brunch: Enjoy a slice of cornbread with your eggs, bacon, or sausage for a satisfying start to the day.

This recipe is similar to a classic Southern cornbread recipe but with the exciting addition of jalapenos. For those who enjoy a sweeter cornbread, consider our Sweet cornbread recipe.

Sliced Cornbread with Jalapenos Served on a Plate

“Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors,” advises Chef Marcus De La Cruz. “Adding herbs or spices to your cornbread can create unique and delicious variations.” For instance, our Southern cornbread with herbs is a wonderful variation.

Conclusion

Cornbread with jalapenos is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With this simple recipe and helpful tips, you’ll be baking up a spicy Southern delight in no time. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of sweet cornbread and fiery jalapenos. For a simpler cornbread experience, try our basic Cornbread recipe. You can also find a delicious alternative in our Cornbread recipe with butter.

Finished Cornbread with Jalapenos in a Baking Pan

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen jalapenos? Yes, you can use frozen jalapenos, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter.
2. How do I store leftover cornbread? Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze cornbread? Yes, you can freeze cornbread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? You can try substituting gluten-free flour blends for the all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different.
5. What can I substitute for buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
6. How do I know when the cornbread is done? The cornbread is done when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
7. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe? Yes, feel free to get creative and add other ingredients like cheese, corn kernels, or different herbs and spices.