Step-by-Step Mixing Technique for Moist Cornbread

Making the perfect jalopena cornbread starts with the right mixing. Begin by separating your wet and dry ingredients. In one bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, milk, sour cream, and a bit of honey. In another, mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and a pinch of salt.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven is hot and ready to bake the cornbread evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

• • Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish with cooking spray or a light layer of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• • In a large mixing bowl, combine:

    • • 1 cup gluten-free cornmeal
    • • 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
    • • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (if using)
    • • 1/2 teaspoon salt

• • Whisk the dry ingredients together until well mixed, breaking up any clumps. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

• • In a separate medium bowl, mix the wet ingredients together:

    • • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
    • • 1 large egg (or a flax egg—mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken)
    • • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
    • • 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil

• • Whisk these ingredients until they are well combined.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

• • Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.

• • Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Add Jalapeños and Corn

• • Fold in:

    • • 1-2 diced jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat, if desired)
    • • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
    • • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (if using)
    • • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (if using)

• • Stir until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

• • Transfer the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly in the dish.

Step 8: Bake the Cornbread

• • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

• • The cornbread is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

• • Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

• • Cut into squares and serve warm. It can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Tips for Enjoyment:

• • Serve with butter, avocado, or your favorite dip.

• • This cornbread pairs well with chili, soups, or salads.