Grain | Vegetarian Gluten Free

Cornmeal

Zea mays Allergen-Free
cornmeal

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Southern US, Mexican, Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Corn (Zea mays)

The Forktionary Angle

"A naturally gluten-free grain product, offering a distinct sweet-nutty flavor and texture."

Definition

Dried and ground corn, varying in grind size from fine to coarse, used in baking, frying, and as a thickener.

Sensory Profile

TasteMildly sweet, Earthy, Starchy
TextureGritty, Powdery, Crunchy
AromaPopcorn-like, Sweet corn
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Common Application

Cornbread (baking)

Grind Types

Fine, Medium, Coarse

Shelf Life (Airtight)

1 year (refrigerated: 2 years)

Nutrition Facts

Per 30g (1/4 cup)
Calories370 kcal
Total Fat1.5 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein7.5 g
Total Carbohydrate79 g
Dietary Fiber4.5 g
Total Sugars0.5 g
Calcium7 mg
Iron2.4 mg
Potassium120 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a crispier fried coating, combine cornmeal with a finer flour and a pinch of baking powder. When making cornbread, avoid overmixing to prevent a tough texture.

Substitutions

Best Match

Polenta (coarse grind)

1:1

Excellent for texture and cooking similar dishes like grits.

All-Purpose Flour

1:1 (adjust for texture)

For thickening or light breading, but lacks characteristic grittiness.

Rice Flour

1:1

Good for gluten-free thickening, less flavor.

Semolina Flour

1:1

Similar gritty texture, different flavor, contains gluten.

Buying Guide

Select fine, medium, or coarse grind based on recipe. Opt for non-GMO if preferred.

Flavor Pairings

Buttermilk Cheese Honey Maple Syrup Beans Fried Fish Chili Pork

Recipes Using Cornmeal

Grains Breakfast Dinner Party Comfort Food

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Side Dishes Course Inexpensive American

Amazing Crispy Fried Onion Rings

Get ready to experience the ultimate crispy fried onion rings! This recipe delivers perfectly coated, thin onion rings with a delightful crunch that won't overpower the sweet onion flavor. Forget soggy disappointments – our secret is a light yet effective batter that ensures maximum crispiness. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe and prepare for rave reviews! These golden-brown beauties are the perfect appetizer or side dish.

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Time To Make Dietary Pizza Number Of Servings

America's Test Kitchen Thin Crust Pizza

Achieve pizzeria-style thin crust pizza at home with this foolproof recipe from America's Test Kitchen! Our easy-to-follow instructions and perfectly balanced dough recipe will yield a crispy, flavorful crust every time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious homemade pizza.

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Low Calorie Stove Top Low Fat Vegetables

Amish Onion Patties

Crispy, golden-brown Amish Onion Patties are the perfect side dish! Made with sweet onions (like Vidalia, Maui Sweet, or 1015), these savory patties are incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor. A delightful combination of tender onions and a crispy exterior, they're sure to be a family favorite. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this simple yet elegant recipe!

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Quick Breads Breads Quick Breads Dietary

Amusement Park Cornbread

Get ready for a taste of pure delight! This Amusement Park Cornbread is incredibly light and fluffy, reminiscent of the famous Smokey Bones cornbread but even better. Sweet, subtly buttery, and utterly irresistible, it's the perfect side dish for any occasion. Serve warm with a pat of honey butter for a truly unforgettable experience. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers amazing results every time!

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Preparation Healthy Christmas Number Of Servings

Apple Raisin Bread

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Main Dish Lunch Vegetables Presentation

Artichoke Chicken Calzones

These irresistible Artichoke Chicken Calzones are a flavor explosion! Inspired by a Cooking Light recipe, these savory calzones are filled with tender chicken, artichoke hearts, spinach, and creamy provolone cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready for a taste sensation that'll have you going back for seconds!

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Course Lamb Sheep Broil Australian

Aussie Lamb Burgers With Goat Cheese And Tomato Relish

Savor the taste of Australia with these juicy Aussie Lamb Burgers! This recipe, inspired by "Simply Delicious Australian Lamb," features flavorful lamb patties coated in cornmeal, topped with creamy goat cheese, and a vibrant homemade tomato relish. Perfect for a BBQ, weeknight dinner, or any occasion. Get ready for a culinary adventure Down Under!

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30 Minutes Or Less Vegetables Course Time To Make

Authentic Southern Fried Okra

Crispy, golden-brown Southern fried okra with a secret trick for perfectly adhering cornmeal! This traditional recipe delivers the ultimate crunch in every bite. Learn our simple method for achieving that irresistible, flavorful coating.

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Dietary Time To Make Breads Bread Machine

Awesome Bread Machine Pizza Dough

Create the perfect pizza crust effortlessly with this bread machine recipe! This foolproof method yields a delicious, chewy crust, ready for your favorite toppings. Say goodbye to kneading and hello to amazing homemade pizza!

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Course Muffins Equipment Microwave

Bacon Cheddar Muffins

Crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese unite in these irresistible muffins! Perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch, this recipe delivers a delightful blend of savory and salty flavors. Adapted from a classic 2005 magazine recipe, these muffins are easy to make and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort!

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Dietary Main Dish Vegetables Presentation

Baked Polenta With Mushrooms

This creamy, dreamy baked polenta with mushrooms is the perfect side dish for any occasion! Elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with this flavorful and surprisingly easy recipe. Pair it with a simple green salad and a fruity red wine like Burgundy for a complete and satisfying meal. Suitable for diabetic diets in moderation. (Gluten-free option available – see notes).

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Low Fat Vegan Healthy Time To Make

Barbari A Persian Bread

Experience the irresistible taste of Barbari, a beloved Persian flatbread! This recipe delivers a perfectly chewy and subtly sweet bread, perfect for breakfast with feta cheese and herbs, jam, or alongside a warm cup of tea. Similar to Armenian matnakash, our Barbari recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Inspired by a successful home-baking experience with a picky Iranian family, this recipe is your ticket to authentic Persian flavors!

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Yeast Vegetarian 60 Minutes Or Less Breads

Basil Garlic Pizza Dough Abm

Elevate your pizza night with this incredibly flavorful Basil Garlic Pizza Dough! This recipe, perfect for bread machine users, creates a versatile dough ideal for thin or thick crust pizzas, flatbreads, and even bruschetta. Make two 12" thin crust pizzas, one 14" thick crust pizza, or a massive 15x10" thin crust party pizza! Easily adaptable to whole wheat, this recipe is your secret weapon for restaurant-quality pizza at home. Prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate or freeze for ultimate convenience.

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Meat Californian Equipment Eggs Dairy

Bbq Chicken Pizza California Pizza Kitchen Style

Craving California Pizza Kitchen's famous BBQ chicken pizza? This recipe recreates the magic at home! Forget greasy East Coast pies – this recipe delivers tender BBQ chicken, smoky Gouda, and melty mozzarella on a crispy crust. Get ready for a taste of California sunshine in every bite!

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Beginner Cook 60 Minutes Or Less Meat Casseroles

Beef Cornbread Casserole

Satisfy your cravings with this fast and easy Beef Cornbread Casserole! Packed with savory beef and a zesty cornbread topping, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 60 minutes!

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Equipment Time To Make Southern United States Preparation

Okie Cornbread

This family heirloom recipe delivers the ultimate Okie cornbread experience! Crispy edges, a tender crumb, and that irresistible hint of bacon grease make it the perfect side for chili, beans, fried potatoes, or any Southern comfort food. Get ready to taste tradition!

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Main Ingredient Fruit Berries 60 Minutes Or Less

Upside Down Berry Cornmeal Cake

This irresistible Upside Down Berry Cornmeal Cake is a summer sensation! Bursting with juicy berries and a subtly sweet cornmeal cake, this recipe (from Better Homes and Gardens, August 2007) is perfect for showcasing fresh, seasonal fruit. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert!

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