Get ready to elevate your cornbread game with a delightful twist that will have your taste buds dancing! This Pancetta Cornbread Pane di Mais Con is not just any cornbread; it’s a savory Italian-inspired treat that combines the rich, smoky flavor of crispy pancetta with the comforting sweetness of traditional cornbread. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone snack, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll want to dive into this mouthwatering dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup diced pancetta
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well mixed and free of lumps.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until it is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels to absorb excess fat.
- Fold the cooked pancetta into the cornbread batter until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to cut.
- Cut the cornbread into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your Pancetta Cornbread Pane di Mais Con as a delicious side dish or a tasty snack!
Tips
- Choose Quality Pancetta: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality pancetta. Look for one that is well-cured and has a good balance of fat for extra richness in your cornbread.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, while a few lumps will keep your cornbread light and fluffy.
- Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: Consider folding in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese along with the pancetta for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cornbread.
- Serve with Butter or Honey: This cornbread is delicious on its own, but a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey can take it to the next level. Serve warm for the best experience!
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cornbread by adding ingredients like jalapeños for a spicy kick or herbs like rosemary for a fragrant touch.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
