Mexican Street Cornbread

Mexican Street Cornbread is a delightful fusion of traditional cornbread and the bold flavors of Mexican street corn. This recipe combines sweet cornmeal, spicy jalapeños, and rich cheddar cheese, topped with a tangy blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for a Mexican-inspired meal or a flavorful snack on its own.

Ingredients

For the Cornbread:

• 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 unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. While the cornbread is baking, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, cilantro, and chili powder in a small bowl for the topping.
8. Once the cornbread has cooled slightly, spread the topping over the top.
9. Serve warm, accompanied by lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

1. Spicier Cornbread: Add more diced jalapeños or substitute with serrano peppers for an extra kick.
2. Cheese Substitution: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
3. Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs, butter with vegan butter, and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives.
4. Extra Corn Flavor: Add a can of creamed corn to make the cornbread moister and more flavorful.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Mexican Street Cornbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid adding the topping until just before serving if you’re planning to store it.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Is there a way to make this cornbread less spicy?
   Omit or reduce the amount of jalapeños for a milder version.
3. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
   Yes, just drain the canned corn before adding it to the batter.
4. Can I make this cornbread in advance?
   Yes, bake it the day before and add the topping just before serving for the best results.
5. What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
   Feta cheese or Parmesan can be used as a substitute for cotija cheese.
6. Can I freeze this cornbread?
   Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
7. Can I make this recipe without cheese?
   You can omit the cheddar cheese and cotija cheese, but the flavor and texture may be less rich.
8. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free alternatives for butter, sour cream, and cheese, and replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
9. Can I bake this cornbread in muffin tins?
   Yes, pour the batter into greased muffin tins and reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes.
10. What goes well with Mexican Street Cornbread?
    It pairs perfectly with chili, grilled meats, or a hearty salad.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Cornbread is a crowd-pleaser with its mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a snack, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, this recipe is perfect for spicing up your next meal. The versatility of the dish allows for various adaptations, making it suitable for different preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the rich taste of cornbread with a Mexican twist!

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