Grain, Flour | Gluten Free Vegan

Yellow Cornmeal

Zea mays Allergen-Free
yellow cornmeal

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine American Southern, Italian, Latin American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Corn

The Forktionary Angle

"Bake and cook with confidence using Yellow Cornmeal."

Definition

Coarsely ground dried yellow corn, used in baking and cooking for items like cornbread, polenta, and as a dredging agent.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Sweet
TextureGritty, Fine, Powdery
AromaGrainy, Mild Corn
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Corn Production (2022)

Over 1.1 billion metric tons

Gluten Status

Naturally Gluten-Free

Particle Size (typically)

Coarse to Medium

Nutrition Facts

Per 30g (1/4 cup)
Calories370 kcal
Total Fat1.5 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein7.3 g
Total Carbohydrate79 g
Dietary Fiber7 g
Total Sugars0.6 g
Calcium5 mg
Iron1.5 mg
Potassium290 mg

Chef’s Secret

When making cornbread, for an extra tender crumb, soak the cornmeal in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) before mixing with other ingredients.

Substitutions

Best Match

Polenta

1:1

Larger grind, similar corn flavor, good for creamy dishes.

Semolina

1:1

Wheat-based, different flavor, similar coarse texture for dredging/baking.

Masa Harina

1:1

Nixtamalized corn flour, distinct flavor, for tortillas, not cornbread.

Fine Breadcrumbs

1:1

For dredging or adding texture, not suitable for baking recipes like cornbread.

Buying Guide

Available in fine, medium, or coarse grinds. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze.

Flavor Pairings

Buttermilk cheese chilies butter syrup beans stews.

Recipes Using Yellow Cornmeal

Beginner Cook Preparation For Large Groups Side Dishes

Albers Sweet Corn Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible sweetness and fluffiness of these classic Albers Sweet Corn Muffins! This recipe, originally found on the back of an Albers cornmeal box, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect as a breakfast treat, side dish, or even a dessert, these muffins are incredibly versatile. While we recommend using Albers cornmeal for the best results (as per the original recipe's copyright), you can experiment with other brands. Get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite!

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Winter Taste Mood Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Albers Tamale Pie Casserole

A savory twist on classic tamale pie! This comforting casserole features a creamy cornmeal crust and a hearty beef filling with corn, olives, and spices. Inspired by a recipe from Lois Morgan of Rocklin, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. Get ready for a flavorful explosion in every bite!

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Preparation Equipment Stove Top Side Dishes

Amazing Hush Puppies

Crispy, spicy, and utterly irresistible! These hush puppies are a family favorite, perfect for your next fish fry or as a delicious side dish. Our secret recipe delivers a perfectly golden-brown exterior and a tender, flavorful interior bursting with warmth and spice. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Lunch Time To Make Oven Corn

Apple And Cheddar Corn Muffins

Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these irresistible Apple & Cheddar Corn Muffins! Bursting with juicy apple chunks, creamy cheddar cheese, and the delightful sweetness of corn, these muffins are a fantastic breakfast, brunch, or snack option. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they're sure to become a family favorite.

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Course Oven Healthy Kid Friendly

Apple Corn Muffins

Delightfully moist and subtly sweet Apple Corn Muffins! This easy recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the hearty texture of cornmeal for a perfect breakfast or snack. Get ready to enjoy these golden-brown muffins bursting with flavor in just 40 minutes!

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Preparation Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

B's Sweet Corn Bread

This unbelievably delicious sweet cornbread is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike! Its subtly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with spicy dishes like jambalaya, but it's also delightful on its own as a unique dessert. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Main Dish Preparation Freshwater Fish Catfish

Baked Catfish Fillets

Craving crispy, flavorful catfish without the deep-frying? This recipe delivers! Baked to perfection with a crunchy cornmeal crust, these catfish fillets are unbelievably tender inside and satisfyingly crispy outside. The creamy ranch dressing adds a delightful zing that elevates the dish to the next level. Get ready for a taste sensation that rivals fried catfish – healthier and easier to clean up!

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Served Cold African Vegetables Easy

Baked Eggplant Aubergine Ala Ce Ce With Tomato Mushroom Gravy

Experience a flavor explosion with this irresistible Baked Eggplant Aubergine! Inspired by Ce Ce's legendary breading recipe (originally for green tomatoes!), this dish features tender eggplant slices, perfectly crisped to golden perfection, and smothered in a rich, homemade tomato-mushroom gravy. A delightful vegetarian main course or side dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Prepare to be amazed!

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Course Healthy Spicy Oven

Baked Fiery Chicken Strips

Craving those crispy, spicy chicken strips you love from restaurants, but want a healthier option? This baked version delivers the fiery flavor and satisfying crunch without the guilt! Inspired by Taste of Home Cooking School, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Dietary Seafood Diabetic Dietary

Baked Salmon Fish Sticks

Craving a healthy and delicious meal? These crispy baked salmon fish sticks are packed with Omega-3s and bursting with flavor! Inspired by "Cooking with the Diabetic Chef," this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a truly satisfying experience. Get ready for flaky, flavorful salmon that's both good for you and incredibly tasty!

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Bananas Taste Mood Vegetarian Dietary

Banana Waffles With Toasted Pecans

Experience the ultimate breakfast bliss with these Banana Pecan Waffles! This recipe perfectly blends the crispy texture of a classic waffle with the warm, comforting flavors of banana bread. The secret? A generous amount of butter in the batter creates wonderfully crisp waffles that are simply irresistible. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty sweetness. Pair these heavenly waffles with a frothy cafe con leche or your favorite coffee for the perfect morning treat. Get ready for waffle perfection!

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Easy Breads

Bandera Cornbread Clone

Recreate the legendary moist, sweet, and unbelievably delicious cornbread from Houston's beloved Bandera restaurants! This recipe perfectly captures the magic of their famous cornbread. While traditionally baked in small (6-inch) cast iron skillets for that perfect crust-to-center ratio, this recipe easily adapts to a single 12-inch skillet for larger gatherings. Get ready for the most amazing cornbread you've ever tasted!

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Casseroles Crock Pot Slow Cooker Tomatoes Equipment

Bean And Cornbread Casserole Crock Pot

This hearty and flavorful Bean & Cornbread Casserole, inspired by our rivals, is slow-cooked to perfection in your crock-pot! Enjoy tender beans in a rich tomato sauce, topped with a fluffy, golden cornbread. A crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Preparation Dietary 4 Hours Or Less Number Of Servings

Beef And Cheese Tamale Pie

This hearty and flavorful Beef and Cheese Tamale Pie is the perfect crowd-pleaser for your next holiday gathering! A comforting twist on traditional tamales, this casserole is quick to assemble and boasts a rich, cheesy topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. Skip the hours of tedious tamale-making and enjoy this delicious alternative that's just as satisfying.

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Southwestern United States Beef Easy Main Ingredient

Beef Mole Tamale Pie

A Southwestern fusion masterpiece! This Beef Mole Tamale Pie combines the richness of mole sauce with the comforting textures of a tamale pie. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a special weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a complex and satisfying flavor profile that will impress your guests. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Potluck Cheese Potluck Ground Beef

Beef Tamale Casserole

Skip the fuss, not the flavor! This easy Beef Tamale Casserole is a delicious alternative to traditional tamales. Baked in a casserole dish, it's like one giant, comforting tamale. We've swapped bell peppers for diced green chilies for a zesty kick—a happy accident that elevated this recipe to 'muy bueno!' Get ready for a hearty, cheesy, and unbelievably satisfying meal.

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