Arizona Corn Bread

Indulge in the unique flavors of Arizona Corn Bread, a delightful twist on the classic cornbread recipe. This version stands out by incorporating yeast, which adds an extra dimension of softness and tenderness to the bread. The combination of oil and sour cream ensures a moist and luscious texture, while the addition of peppers infuses the bread with a delightful zing. With its perfect balance of savory and sweet notes, this corn bread is sure to be a hit at any mealtime or gathering. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the warm and comforting aroma of freshly baked Arizona Corn Bread.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 packages (¼ ounce each) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
• ½ cup canola oil
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• 2 eggs
• 1¼ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 cup cream-style corn
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 5 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
• Additional cornmeal
• Melted butter

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, sugar, active dry yeast, salt, baking soda, and pepper. Set this mixture aside.
2. In a saucepan, heat the sour cream, canola oil, and chopped green onions to a temperature of 120°-130° F. Add this mixture to the cornmeal mixture and beat until well blended.
3. Beat in the eggs, shredded pepper jack cheese, cream-style corn, and chopped jalapeno peppers.
4. Stir in enough all-purpose flour to form a stiff dough.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it until it becomes smooth and elastic, approximately 6-8 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1 hour.
7. After the first rising, punch the dough down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough in half and shape it into two loaves.
8. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans and dust them with additional cornmeal. Place the loaves seam side down in the prepared pans. Cover the pans and let the loaves rise until doubled in size, approximately 30 minutes.
9. Brush melted butter over the loaves and then bake them at 375° F for 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown. If the tops brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
10. Remove the loaves from the pans and place them on wire racks to cool.

YIELD: 2 loaves (16 slices each)

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes + rising, 30 minutes baking

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Take precautions when handling hot peppers. Wear disposable gloves to avoid the oils burning your skin and avoid touching your face.

TIPS:

• Serve slices of Arizona Corn Bread warm, accompanied by butter or your favorite spread.
• This corn bread pairs well with hearty soups, stews, or chili for a satisfying meal.

Arizona Corn Bread offers a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, setting it apart from the crowd with its soft, tender texture and tantalizing flavors. The addition of yeast infuses the bread with a wonderful lightness, while the combination of oil and sour cream ensures an irresistibly moist crumb. The peppers add a burst of zesty goodness, elevating the bread to a Tex-Mex-inspired masterpiece.

Preparing this flavorful corn bread is a rewarding experience that fills your home with the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread. As the dough rises, the anticipation builds, and the final golden loaves do not disappoint. The savory and sweet notes of this bread make it a versatile accompaniment to a variety of dishes, whether served with a bowl of hearty chili or enjoyed as a snack on its own.

The process of creating Arizona Corn Bread is simple, thanks to the convenience of one-pot mixing and straightforward instructions. With the dough masterfully kneaded and shaped into loaves, the bread bakes to perfection, creating a beautiful golden crust that invites you to take a bite.

Caution is advised when handling the jalapeno peppers, as their oils can burn the skin. However, this minor precaution is well worth the delightful flavor they bring to the bread. The jalapenos add a gentle kick that balances the richness of the corn and cheese, making each slice an irresistible treat.

In conclusion, Arizona Corn Bread is a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and classic comfort. The combination of ingredients and unique baking process yield a bread that is both soft and zesty, satisfying both your hunger and taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for family meals, gatherings, or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, Arizona Corn Bread promises to be a hit on any occasion.