Southwest Cornbread

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Southwest Cornbread, a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed year-round. This recipe provides a perfect companion to a steaming bowl of chili on a cold winter night and equally shines as a refreshing addition to a cool summer salad. The fusion of ingredients brings a touch of Southwest flair to your table.

Super easy vegetarian
Enjoy this versatile cornbread year-round. It makes the perfect partner for a hot bowl of chili on a cold winter night. In the heat of summer, it works equally well with a cool salad for a light lunch.

Yield: 6–8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
Total Time: 28–30 minutes
Dietary: Super Easy Vegetarian

INGREDIENTS:

• Cooking spray
• ½ cup yellow cornmeal
• ½ cup flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup frozen corn kernels, thawed and drained
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 1 or 2 small jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, grated

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for optimal cooking.
2. Spray the air fryer baking pan with nonstick cooking spray, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly, creating the foundation for the cornbread.
4. Stir in the thawed and drained frozen corn kernels, finely chopped onion, and the desired amount of seeded and chopped jalapeño peppers. This blend of vegetables adds texture and flavor to the cornbread.
5. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg and mix in the milk and melted butter. Ensure the wet ingredients are well combined. Gently stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until a cohesive batter forms.
6. Spoon half of the batter into the prepared air fryer baking pan, spreading it to the edges evenly. Sprinkle the grated sharp Cheddar cheese over this layer. Spoon the remaining batter on top of the cheese layer, gently spreading it to cover the cheese and reach the edges of the pan.
7. Place the baking pan in the air fryer and cook at 360°F for 18 to 20 minutes. Check periodically to ensure the cornbread is cooked through and the top turns crispy brown.
8. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the Southwest Cornbread from the air fryer. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

With its blend of textures, flavors, and adaptability, Southwest Cornbread takes a humble dish to new heights. As you savor each bite, you’ll experience the warmth of comfort food during colder months and the refreshing zest of summer flavors when temperatures rise. From its crispy top to its savory Cheddar filling, this cornbread embodies the essence of Southwest cuisine, inviting you to enjoy its goodness year-round.