| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 300 | 15g | 5g | 37g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 2g | 7g | 0.6g |
There’s something profoundly comforting about a warm slice of Skillet Maize Bread, straight from the oven. Growing up with strong Caribbean and Spanish influences, many of my family’s cherished moments happened around a communal table. This savory-sweet treat combines the familiar and the new, bringing a hint of nostalgia with each bite. Its primary ingredient, cornmeal, lends an earthy flavor and a delightful texture that’s both crumbly and moist.
Rooted in Tradition, Yet Wonderfully Versatile
One of the aspects I love about Skillet Maize Bread is its versatility. While it carries the vibrant spirit of Caribbean cuisine, it also complements a myriad of dishes. Whether it’s paired with a cup of rich, creamy soup like Creamy Potato Leek Soup or served alongside flavorful tapas, its ability to fit seamlessly into various meals is remarkable.
A Healthier Choice
Besides its taste and cultural significance, Skillet Maize Bread has notable health benefits. Cornmeal is packed with essential nutrients like fiber, which aids in digestion, and magnesium, which supports muscle function. The addition of mixed fresh berries not only brings a burst of fresh flavor but also adds antioxidants and vitamins. One might say this bread is as guilt-free as it is delightful.
The recipe itself calls for a few simple ingredients: cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, perfectly balanced with buttermilk, whole milk, vegetable oil, large eggs, and fresh berries. The buttermilk and whole milk provide a luscious, creamy consistency that raises the bar for traditional maize bread recipes.
A Staple for Any Meal
If you’re looking to explore dishes similar to Skillet Maize Bread, you might find joy in trying a classic Spanish Cornbread or even indulging in a hearty slice accompanied by a vibrant, tropical fruit salsa. The bread’s subtle sweetness and savory undertones allow it to be a star on its own or play a supporting role in a culinary spread.
Ultimately, Skillet Maize Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the simplicity and richness of home-cooked meals. It’s a bread of the people, for the people, lovingly passed down through generations and reshaped with every family’s unique twist. So, go ahead and let this maize bread bring a piece of my kitchen to yours. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven as it preheats.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Step Three
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs until well combined.
Step Four
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is just combined, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in 1 cup of mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries).
Step Five
Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the oven and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Swirl the butter in the skillet until it is fully melted and coats the bottom and sides of the skillet.
Step Six
Pour the batter into the hot skillet, spreading it evenly.
Step Seven
Place the skillet back in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step Eight
Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the maize bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!
