Martha White Cornbread Recipe: A Southern Classic
Are you ready to experience the melt-in-your-mouth magic of authentic Southern cornbread? This recipe, inspired by the iconic Martha White brand, delivers a perfectly crumbly, slightly sweet, and undeniably delicious cornbread experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet satisfying side dish or even a delightful breakfast treat!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest home cooks. Gather the following:
- 1 ½ cups Martha White Self-Rising Corn Meal: This is the key to achieving that authentic Southern cornbread texture. The self-rising aspect simplifies the process, eliminating the need for additional leavening agents.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the cornbread's savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup milk: Provides moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- ¼ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and a delicate texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create a perfect batch of Martha White-inspired cornbread:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or a cast iron skillet for optimal browning and easy removal. Cast iron provides superior heat distribution and a wonderfully crispy crust.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the Martha White self-rising cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined to prevent pockets of uneven seasoning.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vegetable oil until well blended.
4. Gently Combine:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough cornbread, so aim for a slightly lumpy batter.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or your favorite savory toppings.
Tips for the Perfect Cornbread:
- Don't Overmix: Gentle mixing is crucial for a tender crumb.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients always yield the best results.
- Adjust Sweetness: For a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to ½ teaspoon.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as cheese, jalapeños, or corn kernels.
- Cast Iron Magic: Baking in a cast iron skillet results in a crispier crust and a more evenly baked cornbread.
Serving Suggestions:
This delicious cornbread is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it as:
- A side dish: The perfect complement to chili, stews, soups, and BBQ.
- Breakfast bread: Top it with butter, honey, or jam.
- Crumb topping: Crumble it over casseroles or salads for added texture and flavor.
This Martha White-inspired cornbread recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Its simplicity and delicious taste make it perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of pure Southern comfort!
