Are you looking for a tasty and easy recipe for Johnny Cakes? Look no further! This recipe from River Cottage is sure to satisfy your cravings. Johnny Cakes are a traditional cornbread-like dish that can be enjoyed as a side or even as a main course. With a hint of sweetness and a smoky flavor from the BBQ, these Johnny Cakes are a perfect addition to any meal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
- BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the corn kernels and chopped herbs.
- Preheat your BBQ grill to medium heat.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop dollops of the batter onto a greased grill plate or skillet.
- Cook the Johnny Cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the grill and serve hot with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Why Are My Johnny Cakes Hard? Discover Quick Fixes & Tips
If your Johnny Cakes turn out hard, there are a few quick fixes you can try:
- 1. Make sure your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can result in tough Johnny Cakes.
- 2. Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense and hard cakes.
- 3. Adjust the cooking time and temperature. Cooking on high heat for too long can cause the cakes to become dry and tough.
- 4. Add a little more liquid to the batter. This can help make the cakes softer and more tender.
The Origin of Johnny Cakes: Unveiling their Original Name
Johnny Cakes, also known as journey cakes, were originally called “jonny cakes” or “journey cakes” by Native Americans. These cakes were a staple food for early settlers and travelers, as they were easy to make and could be cooked over an open fire.
The Origins of Johnny Cakes: Uncovering Their History
Johnny Cakes have a long history that dates back to the 17th century. They were a popular food among early American colonists, who relied on corn as a staple crop. The cakes were cooked on hot stones or cast-iron griddles and were often served with butter, molasses, or maple syrup.
Exploring Alternative Names for Johnny Cakes: A Culinary Journey
While Johnny Cakes is the most common name for this dish, there are several regional variations and alternative names for it. In the southern United States, they are sometimes called “hoecakes” or “corn pone,” while in the Caribbean, they are known as “journey cakes” or “festival cakes.”
