Corn Griddle Cakes America's Test Kitchen
One of America's favorite breakfast dishes is Corn Griddle Cakes. This simple recipe uses cornmeal and flour to create a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility, as it can be served with a variety of toppings and sides.
What is Cornmeal?
Cornmeal is a type of flour that is made from ground corn. It is a staple ingredient in many traditional American dishes, such as cornbread and grits. Cornmeal comes in various textures, including fine, medium, and coarse. For this recipe, medium-grind cornmeal is recommended to create the perfect texture for the griddle cakes.
The secret to light and fluffy griddle cakes
The secret to making light and fluffy corn griddle cakes is to use a combination of baking powder and baking soda. Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the batter rise, while baking soda helps to neutralize the acidity in the batter. This combination creates a light and airy texture that is perfect for griddle cakes.
American Test Kitchen's Corn Griddle Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of cornmeal
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Spoon batter onto the griddle in 1/4 cup portions.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the griddle cakes and the edges are set, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as butter, honey, or maple syrup.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of corn griddle cakes is that they are highly customizable. Here are some variations and substitutions to try:
- Use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier option.
- Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the batter for a savory twist.
- Add chopped jalapenos, bell peppers, or onions for an extra kick of flavor.
- Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas and whipped cream for a sweet twist.
- Serve with a side of scrambled eggs, avocado, or salsa for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Corn Griddle Cakes are a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With its simple ingredients and versatile nature, it's no wonder why this dish has become a staple in American cuisine. Give it a try and experiment with your favorite variations and toppings!