When it comes to adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your dishes, few ingredients can rival the versatility and charm of blue cornmeal. This vibrant, ancient grain has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and its unique flavor profile has captured the hearts of home cooks and chefs alike. Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to your breakfast routine or wanting to elevate your dinner game, blue cornmeal is an ingredient that’s sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious blue cornmeal recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From sweet treats like blue cornmeal pancakes and waffles to savory dishes like blue cornmeal pizza crust and fried chicken, we’ve got you covered. So, get ready to add a splash of blue to your culinary creations!
Blue Cornmeal Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy blue cornmeal pancakes drizzled with pure Canadian maple syrup – a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup stone-ground blue cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Pure Canadian maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with pure Canadian maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Blue Cornbread with Honey Butter
This sweet and savory cornbread is a perfect match for your favorite meals or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
1. Mix together butter and honey until smooth.
2. Spread on warm cornbread and enjoy!
Blue Cornmeal Muffins with Berries
Start your day with a sweet and savory treat that combines the natural sweetness of cornmeal with the bold flavor of blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in the mixed berries.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Waffles with Whipped Cream
Start your day off right with these crispy and flavorful blue cornmeal waffles, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Cook waffles according to iron’s instructions, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Pizza Crust with Fresh Toppings
Elevate your pizza game with this unique blue cornmeal crust, perfectly balanced by fresh and flavorful toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Fresh toppings:
+ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
+ 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
+ 1/2 cup sliced onions
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, blue cornmeal, and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then shape into a ball.
5. Roll out dough to desired thickness.
6. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
7. Spread mozzarella cheese evenly over crust.
8. Top with bell peppers, onions, and cilantro.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Fried Chicken with Spicy Mayo
This recipe puts a Southwestern spin on traditional fried chicken by using blue cornmeal and pairing it with spicy mayo for a tangy kick. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy mayo (see below)
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together blue cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat in blue cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve fried chicken with spicy mayo drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Cookies with Chocolate Chips
These sweet treats combine the nutty flavor of blue cornmeal with the richness of dark chocolate chips, creating a unique and addictive snack. Perfect for cookie lovers looking to mix things up!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and blue cornmeal. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Tortillas for Tacos
A twist on traditional tortillas, these blue cornmeal tortillas add a pop of color and a nutty flavor to your tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the blue cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Cook the tortillas for 30-45 seconds on each side, until they are lightly browned and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Blue Cornmeal Biscuits with Gravy
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these moist and flavorful blue cornmeal biscuits, served with a rich and savory gravy. Perfect for a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Gravy ingredients: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and beaten egg; stir until shaggy dough forms.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. For gravy: melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (biscuits), 5-7 minutes (gravy)
Blue Cornmeal Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This moist and flavorful cake gets a pop of color from the blue cornmeal, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and creamy touch. Perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon blue cornmeal
– 2 large eggs
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, buttermilk, blue cornmeal, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Dumplings in Stew
Add a burst of flavor and texture to your stew with these easy-to-make blue cornmeal dumplings. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 3/4 cup warm chicken broth
– 1 egg, beaten
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add shortening and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm broth, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently 5-7 times.
5. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shapes.
6. Add dumplings to your favorite stew recipe during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Crepes with Fruit Filling
A sweet and savory twist on traditional crepes, these blue cornmeal crepes are filled with a delicious fruit filling and perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fruit filling (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
4. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour in a small amount of batter and tilt to evenly coat the pan.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
7. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
8. Fill with desired fruit filling and roll up.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on size and number of crepes)
Blue Cornmeal Pie Crust for Savory Pies
This recipe yields a crispy, slightly sweet, and nutty pie crust perfect for savory pies like quiches or tartlets. The blue cornmeal adds a unique flavor dimension that pairs well with herbs and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup stone-ground blue cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornmeal.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out to desired thickness.
Cooking Time: Not applicable (crust is baked separately from filling).
Blue Cornmeal Hush Puppies with Remoulade
A Southern classic gets a vibrant twist with these crispy, sweet hush puppies made with blue cornmeal and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, baking powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add buttermilk and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry hush puppies for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the hush puppies.
Blue Cornmeal Scones with Lemon Glaze
These scones are a delightful twist on traditional breakfast treats, featuring the nutty flavor of blue cornmeal and a bright, citrusy lemon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Gradually pour in heavy cream, stirring until dough comes together.
5. Turn dough onto floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat into an 8-inch circle. Cut into 8 triangles.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. While scones are baking, whisk together lemon zest and juice to make glaze.
9. Drizzle warm scones with lemon glaze.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Polenta with Mushrooms
This comforting side dish combines the nutty flavor of blue cornmeal with the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a creative twist on traditional polenta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the blue cornmeal and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the polenta is creamy and cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir the mushroom mixture into the cooked polenta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar
These Blue Cornmeal Donuts are infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and sugar, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter (if using).
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into hot oil.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, toss donuts in cinnamon sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Blue Cornmeal Crackers with Herbs
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy and flavorful blue cornmeal crackers infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for pairing with cheese, spreads, or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Fold in rosemary and thyme leaves.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place crackers on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Allow crackers to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these delicious blue cornmeal recipes! From sweet treats like blue cornmeal pancakes and cookies, to savory dishes like pizza crust and fried chicken, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a breakfast treat, a snack or dessert, or even a main course, this collection of 18 recipes has got you covered. Try your hand at making blue cornmeal waffles with whipped cream, blue cornbread with honey butter, or blue cornmeal tortillas for tacos. The possibilities are endless!