Cornmeal, the unassuming ground corn that’s been a staple food for centuries, is making a comeback. This versatile ingredient, once relegated to dusty corners of pantries, is now finding its way into trendy restaurants and health-conscious kitchens alike. And for good reason! Plain cornmeal is gluten-free, packed with nutrients, and surprisingly delicious.
What is Plain Cornmeal?
Plain cornmeal is simply coarsely ground dried corn kernels. Unlike its finer cousin, corn flour, cornmeal retains a bit of texture, which gives it a unique appeal. There are two main types of plain cornmeal:
- Stone-ground: This type is made by grinding corn kernels between two large stones. It has a heartier, nuttier flavor and a coarser texture.
- Machine-ground: This type is made by grinding corn kernels with steel rollers. It has a smoother texture and a milder flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Plain Cornmeal
Cornmeal is a good source of:
- Fiber: One cup of cooked cornmeal provides about 5 grams of fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
- Magnesium: Cornmeal is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that plays a role in muscle and nerve function.
- Vitamin B6: Cornmeal is a good source of vitamin B6, which is important for energy metabolism and brain function.
- Antioxidants: Cornmeal contains antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.
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How to Use Plain Cornmeal
Plain cornmeal is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are just a few ideas:
- Cornbread: This classic Southern dish is made with cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and eggs. It’s the perfect side dish for chili or soup.
- Polenta: This Italian dish is made with cornmeal and water. It can be served plain, topped with cheese or sauce, or baked into a casserole.
- Grits: This Southern breakfast staple is made with cornmeal and water. It can be served plain, with butter and salt, or with cheese and bacon.
- Pancakes and waffles: Cornmeal can be added to pancake and waffle batter for a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Cornmeal can be used to make breadcrumbs for coating chicken, fish, or vegetables.
- Stuffed peppers: Cornmeal can be used to make a flavorful stuffing for peppers.
Recipe: Classic Cornbread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Add to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Stir in melted butter.
- Pour batter into prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips:
- For a sweeter cornbread, add 1/4 cup of honey or molasses to the batter.
- For a more savory cornbread, add 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese to the batter.
- Cornbread can be served warm or cold.
Corn Meal FAQ”s
What is plain cornmeal?
Plain cornmeal is a coarsely ground cornmeal. It’s made from dried corn kernels that have been ground between two large stones. Cornmeal is naturally gluten-free and a good source of fiber, magnesium, and vitamin B6.
What are the different types of cornmeal?
There are two main types of cornmeal:
- Stone-ground: This type of cornmeal is made by grinding corn kernels between two large stones. It has a heartier, nuttier flavor and a coarser texture.
- Machine-ground: This type of cornmeal is made by grinding corn kernels with steel rollers. It has a smoother texture and a milder flavor.
What are the health benefits of cornmeal?
Cornmeal is a good source of fiber, magnesium, and vitamin B6. Fiber is important for digestive health, magnesium is important for muscle and nerve function, and vitamin B6 is important for energy metabolism and brain function. Cornmeal also contains antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.
How can I use cornmeal?
Cornmeal is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are just a few ideas:
- Cornbread: This classic Southern dish is made with cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and eggs. It’s the perfect side dish for chili or soup.
- Polenta: This Italian dish is made with cornmeal and water. It can be served plain, topped with cheese or sauce, or baked into a casserole.
- Grits: This Southern breakfast staple is made with cornmeal and water. It can be served plain, with butter and salt, or with cheese and bacon.
- Pancakes and waffles: Cornmeal can be added to pancake and waffle batter for a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Cornmeal can be used to make breadcrumbs for coating chicken, fish, or vegetables.
- Stuffed peppers: Cornmeal can be used to make a flavorful stuffing for peppers.
Is cornmeal gluten-free?
Yes, plain cornmeal is naturally gluten-free. However, it’s important to check the label of any cornmeal products you buy, as some brands may add gluten-containing ingredients.
Where can I buy cornmeal?
Cornmeal can be found at most grocery stores. It’s usually located in the baking aisle.
How can I store cornmeal?
Cornmeal should be stored in a cool, dry place. An airtight container in the pantry is a good option. Once opened, cornmeal can be stored for up to six months.
Tips for cooking with cornmeal
- When cooking with cornmeal, it’s important to use the right type of cornmeal for the recipe. For example, stone-ground cornmeal is best for cornbread, while machine-ground cornmeal is best for polenta.
- Cornmeal can absorb a lot of liquid, so be sure to add enough liquid to your recipe.
- Cornmeal can burn easily, so be sure to cook it over low heat.
- If your cornmeal is lumpy, you can break it up with a whisk or fork before adding it to your recipe.
Conclusion
Plain cornmeal is a healthy, versatile, and delicious ingredient that deserves a place in every kitchen. So next time you’re looking for something new to try, give cornmeal a chance. You might be surprised at how much you love it!