Creamy Sour Cream Cornbread
This Creamy Sour Cream Cornbread is a delicious and heart-healthy side dish perfect for pairing with chili or soup. Made with simple ingredients like cornmeal, sour cream, and milk, it offers a tender, moist texture and a slight sweetness. Opt for whole grains and low-fat dairy to support heart and digestive health. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, this cornbread adds nutritional value to any meal. Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter for extra flavor.
Ingredients:
1 cup cornmeal (rich in fiber, supporting digestive health)
1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier option)
1 tablespoon baking powder (ensuring light, fluffy texture)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (helps the bread rise)
1/2 teaspoon salt (reduce for a heart-healthy option)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, or substitute with a natural sweetener to keep your blood sugar levels in check)
1 cup sour cream (provides calcium for bone health)
1/2 cup milk (choose low-fat to support heart health)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (use a heart-healthy oil, like olive oil, as an alternative)
2 large eggs (packed with protein and essential nutrients)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Choosing non-stick cookware helps reduce the need for extra fats, which is great for managing cholesterol levels.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using). Incorporating whole grains, like cornmeal, provides a fiber boost, contributing to heart health and improved digestion.
3. Mix the wet ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, melted butter (or olive oil), and eggs. Whisk until smooth. Low-fat dairy options can help reduce saturated fat intake, promoting cardiovascular health.
4. Combine the mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix to keep the bread tender and soft. A good mix of fats, proteins, and whole grains can help regulate blood sugar levels and support long-term wellness.
5. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Cooking at home with fresh ingredients can be part of a diabetes prevention plan, reducing the reliance on processed foods.
6. Serve:
Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a small portion of butter or drizzle of honey (or a low-sugar option). Eating balanced meals with healthy fats can help manage cholesterol and keep your heart in top shape.
