Prairie Pinion
A Historical Delight
The Prairie Pinion is a dish steeped in Midwestern tradition, echoing the vast landscapes and rich agricultural heritage of the prairies. It draws inspiration from local ingredients and culinary techniques passed down through generations. Known for its hearty flavors and comforting textures, it's a meal that captures the essence of its region.
Ingredients
- Cornmeal - 2 cups
- Ground Beef - 1 lb
- Onion - 1 large, chopped
- Bell Pepper - 1, diced
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes - 2 large, chopped
- Corn - 1 cup
- Black Beans - 1 can, drained and rinsed
- Cumin - 1 tsp
- Chili Powder - 1 tsp
- Chicken Broth - 2 cups
- Cheddar Cheese - 1 cup, shredded
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
- Olive Oil - 2 tbsp
Preparation
- Begin by preparing your workspace. Gather all the ingredients and necessary cooking utensils.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it's ready for baking.
- In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal and chicken broth until well combined. Set aside.
Cooking Process
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper; sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Stir in the tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, mixing occasionally.
- Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a large baking dish, then evenly spread the cornmeal batter over the top.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 30 minutes until the cornmeal topping is golden and set.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
The Prairie Pinion is best enjoyed as a family-style dish, served warm from the oven. Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to complement the rich and savory flavors. It also pairs well with a light white wine or iced tea.