Chicago Cheddar Cornbread Squares

History and Background

Chicago, known for its deep-dish pizzas and rich culinary culture, offers more than just its famous pies. One lesser-known gem from the Windy City is its take on classic cornbread. Chicago Cheddar Cornbread Squares fuse traditional Southern influences with the bold flavors of aged cheddar cheese, creating a savory dish that stands out as a comforting favorite among locals. Cornbread has deep roots in American history, originating with Native American tribes who used ground corn in many staple recipes. As settlers adapted these methods, cornbread evolved to include a variety of ingredients, leading us to the cheesy variation cherished by Chicagoans today.

Ingredients

• Cornmeal - 1 cup
• All-purpose flour - 1 cup
• Baking powder - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon
• Buttermilk - 1 cup
• Eggs - 2, large
• Unsalted butter, melted - 1/4 cup
• Cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup
• Jalapeños, chopped - 2 tablespoons (optional)
• Honey - 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time

The preparation time for Chicago Cheddar Cornbread Squares is approximately 15-20 minutes, with an additional cooking time of around 25-30 minutes, making this dish both quick and relatively simple to whip up for any meal or occasion.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and honey.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Add in the melted butter and mix gently. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and optional jalapeños.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Cooking Process

1. Bake the cornbread in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
3. After cooling, cut the cornbread into squares for serving.

Serving Suggestions

Chicago Cheddar Cornbread Squares are best enjoyed hot, fresh from the oven. They make a perfect pairing with chili, soups, or as a side to grilled meats. Enhance your experience by serving with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of extra honey for additional sweetness.

The delightful combination of moist cornbread with the sharp bite of cheddar cheese and the subtle heat from optional jalapeños makes these squares a versatile dish that caters to diverse palates. Typically enjoyed during family gatherings and local festivities, Chicago Cheddar Cornbread Squares bring a taste of Midwestern comfort and hospitality to any table.