.png)
I think I’ve delved into the history of practically every Southern staple. If not, please let me know! But one dish, one of my favorites, I’m tackling today.
Cornbread, a staple of Southern comfort food, is a delectable treat that has captured the hearts and taste buds of Southerners—the respectable ones, anyway. Its versatility and comforting flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. But why do we eat it? Let’s find out!
Cornbread’s origins can be traced back to the Native American tribes of the Americas. They ground dried corn into a coarse meal and mixed it with water to create the very first cornbread. Over time, European settlers adopted this technique and added their own flour and leavening agents to create the cornbread we know and love today.
Cornbread’s versatility extends beyond its basic recipe, giving rise to a wide range of variations. First, we have traditional (my personal favorite). This cornbread recipe uses a combination of cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and buttermilk to achieve a slightly sweet and crumbly texture. I’m getting so hungry just writing this article!
For the more adventurous types, we have jalapeño cornbread. Spicy jalapeños are added to the batter, creating a tantalizing combination of heat and cornbread sweetness. If you prefer sweet over spicy, add a touch of honey to create a subtle sweetness and golden hue. Honey cornbread makes a perfect breakfast or brunch addition.
I’ve never tried this one, but you can grate sweet potatoes to add a vibrant color and hint of natural sweetness to your cornbread.
Cornbread’s versatility makes it an ideal accompaniment to meals. Plop some barbecue sauce on your cornbread at your next picnic. Or pair it with a bowl of spicy chili to provide a satisfying and comforting meal. Oh, and the crispy skin and juicy meat of fried chicken are perfectly complemented by the soft and fluffy texture of cornbread. Cornbread can also balance out the richness of seafood dishes, such as grilled salmon or crab cakes.
If your doctor asks, there are health benefits to eating cornbread. While not a typical health food, it provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. If you use buttermilk in your recipe, then you’re getting probiotics, which support gut health. And let’s not forget antioxidants! Cornbread has these bad boys, which help protect against cell damage. Who knew one of our favorite breads could be so good for us?
So eat that cornbread without guilt or shame! You’re supporting your Southern heritage, helping a tasty dish achieve its best life, and taking care of your health. Well played, cornbread, well played.
Jann Goar Franklin graduated Russellville High School in 1989. You can reach her at jann@jannfranklin.com