I remember the first time I made cornbread. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was craving comfort food. I’d always been a fan of Jamie Oliver’s cooking style-simple, flavorful, and full of heart. So, when I stumbled upon his cornbread recipe, I had to try it. The smell that filled the kitchen as it baked was pure magic. I could already tell it was going to be something special. The result? A golden, slightly sweet, and perfectly crumbly cornbread that made the whole family gather around the table.
Cornbread isn’t just a side dish-it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. It’s warm, comforting, and versatile enough to complement almost any meal. Jamie Oliver’s version takes this classic to the next level, offering a great balance of moistness and richness with just the right amount of crunch.
Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Recipe
Jamie’s recipe is inspired by traditional cornbread but has a bit of a twist. He keeps it simple while elevating the flavors with fresh ingredients. It’s an easy recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. No fancy techniques here-just honest, hearty ingredients that come together beautifully.
Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients Needed
- 200g cornmeal: This gives the bread its classic corn flavor and texture.
- 200g plain flour: A perfect balance with the cornmeal for structure.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: It helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the cornmeal.
- 2 eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 240ml milk: For moisture, making the cornbread soft and tender.
- 60g butter (melted): Gives the cornbread that rich, buttery flavor and golden color.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: For a subtle sweetness that rounds out the savory flavors.
- Optional: 2 teaspoons of honey: A bit of honey can take the sweetness to the next level, especially if you prefer a sweeter cornbread.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread
Making this cornbread is so straightforward, you can easily whip it up in less than an hour. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking tin or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and sugar (and honey if you like it sweeter). Stir everything together until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix-it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared tin. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden and a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the center.
- Cool and serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You’ll be tempted to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth waiting for those few minutes.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Each ingredient in Jamie Oliver’s cornbread plays a crucial role in giving it that perfect texture and flavor. Here’s the breakdown:
- Cornmeal: This is the heart of cornbread. The coarser texture of cornmeal creates a slightly crumbly yet firm structure. It absorbs moisture and enhances the bread’s flavor with that characteristic corn flavor.
- Baking powder: Baking powder is essential for leavening. It releases carbon dioxide when mixed with the wet ingredients, creating bubbles that make the cornbread rise. This results in a light, airy crumb.
- Butter: The fat from the butter gives the bread richness. It also contributes to a golden crust. As it melts into the batter, it provides flavor and moistness.
- Eggs: Eggs are a binder, holding everything together. They also help with the structure, giving the cornbread its soft, tender texture. The proteins in eggs coagulate when baked, adding firmness to the bread.
- Milk: The liquid in the recipe hydrates the dry ingredients and activates the baking powder. It also helps achieve that tender crumb.
- Sugar (and honey): Sugar adds sweetness but also helps with browning, creating that beautiful golden crust. Honey adds an extra depth of flavor and a touch of natural sweetness.
Expert Tips
To make your cornbread even more amazing, try these pro tips:
- Use buttermilk instead of regular milk: If you want a more tangy, tender cornbread, buttermilk works wonders. It reacts with the baking powder and creates a softer crumb.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cornbread. Stir until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined, and the batter is still a bit lumpy.
- Add extras for flavor: You can mix in a handful of cheese, chopped herbs, or even diced chili peppers for a savory twist.
- Check for doneness: Oven temperatures vary, so check your cornbread a bit earlier than the suggested time. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center.
- Rest it before slicing: Let the cornbread rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. It firms up a bit, making it easier to slice.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch it up? Here are a few variations you can try:
- Cheddar and Jalapeño Cornbread: Fold in some shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy, cheesy twist.
- Corn and Bacon Cornbread: Add crispy bacon bits and sweet corn kernels for a savory version with great texture.
- Vegan Cornbread: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use almond or oat milk in place of dairy. Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter.
- Sweet Cornbread: If you have a sweet tooth, try increasing the sugar and adding a bit of cinnamon for a dessert-style cornbread.
Final Words
Cornbread is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug. It’s versatile enough to serve alongside chili, stew, or even as a standalone snack. Jamie Oliver’s recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the cornmeal while maintaining that signature crumbly texture. Whether you’re cooking for a big gathering or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Recipe Different?
Jamie Oliver adds a mix of fresh herbs and honey for a sweet-savory flavor. It’s more flavorful than traditional cornbread.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Without Buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity.
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Take To Bake?
It typically bakes in 25 to 30 minutes at 200°C (400°F) or until golden and firm to the touch.