Name: Navajo Cornbread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Navajo
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup whole kernel corn (optional)

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Imagine the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread with a slightly sweet, rich flavor and a golden crispy crust. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Navajo Cornbread. It’s the kind of bread that can be served with just about anything — from a hearty bowl of chili to a side of roasted vegetables, or simply enjoyed with a dollop of butter. If you’re ready to experience the flavors of the Southwest, this cornbread is your perfect introduction. Trust me, you’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love Navajo Cornbread

This cornbread isn’t just your average bread. It’s packed with flavor and texture, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Here’s why it’s such a crowd-pleaser:

Versatile: Whether you’re serving it alongside soups, stews, or grilled meats, this cornbread complements almost any dish.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients come together to make a delicious loaf of cornbread that won’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a baking expert to make this! The recipe is straightforward, and the result is absolutely mouthwatering.
Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste – add a little extra sweetness, throw in some jalapeños for heat, or fold in some shredded cheese for an extra kick.
Crowd-Pleasing: This cornbread is moist, fluffy, and has the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients in Navajo Cornbread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful, slightly sweet, and perfectly moist Navajo Cornbread:

Cornmeal: The heart of this cornbread. It provides that signature grainy texture and slightly sweet flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps create the structure and tenderness of the bread.
Baking Powder: Gives the cornbread that light and fluffy texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt brings out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
Eggs: Help bind everything together and give the bread its soft, moist texture.
Milk: A bit of milk adds moisture and richness.
Butter: For a rich flavor and tender crumb, butter is a must.
Baking Soda: Works alongside the baking powder to ensure the cornbread rises properly and has a light texture.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s jump right into making this cornbread. It’s simple, quick, and delicious!

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the cornbread bakes evenly and develops that perfect golden crust.

Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk everything together until well-mixed. This is the base of your cornbread, and it’s going to be absolutely delicious.

Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk and melted butter. Mix until smooth and creamy. This is where the richness and moisture of the cornbread comes from.

Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix – just stir until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense.

Prepare Your Pan: Grease a baking pan (8×8 inch or a similar size) with butter or non-stick spray. This will help the cornbread come out easily once it’s baked and give it that nice crispy edge.

Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Finishing Touches: Once the cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You want it to cool slightly so the texture firms up, but it’s still warm enough to melt butter on top.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve your cornbread warm, ideally with a side of chili, soup, or just a smear of butter. It’s perfect on its own or as an accompaniment to a hearty meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 9
Calories per serving: 200-250 (depending on portion size and specific ingredients used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Navajo Cornbread

This cornbread is a versatile side that goes wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

With Chili: This cornbread is a perfect match for a warm, hearty bowl of chili. The slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with the spiciness of the chili.
With Barbecue: Serve alongside grilled meats or barbecue for a traditional, down-home meal.
As a Snack: It’s also great as a quick snack with a bit of butter or honey drizzled on top.

Additional Tips

For Extra Moisture: If you want an even moister cornbread, try adding a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.
Make It Ahead: Cornbread is great for make-ahead meals. You can bake it the night before and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use self-rising cornmeal?
Yes, if you use self-rising cornmeal, you can skip the baking powder and baking soda in the recipe.

2. Can I make this cornbread without butter?
You can substitute the butter with oil or even applesauce for a slightly lighter version.

3. Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a bit of shredded cheese, like cheddar, to the batter will make this cornbread even more delicious and savory.

4. How can I make this cornbread sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, simply add more sugar or drizzle honey over the top once it’s baked.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.

6. How do I store leftover cornbread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

7. How do I reheat leftover cornbread?
To reheat, wrap the cornbread in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave it for a few seconds.

8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, adding a few more minutes if necessary.

9. Can I add fruit to the cornbread?
You can add fruits like blueberries or chopped apples to the batter for a sweet twist!

10. How do I make this cornbread more crumbly?
For a more crumbly texture, add a little more cornmeal to the recipe, or reduce the amount of flour slightly.

Conclusion

This Navajo Cornbread is everything you need in a comforting, flavorful bread. It’s simple, moist, and has the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Whether you’re pairing it with chili or enjoying it all on its own, this cornbread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, bake a batch, and enjoy the delicious, golden goodness!