Filipino-American Style Crispy Cornbread (Kvrguša)

Ingredients

In this Filipino-American adaptation of Kvrguša, we incorporate Filipino-American ingredients and flavors to create a unique twist. Traditional Bosnian cornbread is transformed into a crispy delight by using a combination of cornmeal and all-purpose flour. The addition of Filipino spices such as garlic powder and paprika adds a burst of flavor. The cooking technique is also modified to achieve a golden and crispy exterior, while maintaining a soft and fluffy interior. We alse have the original recipe for Kvrguša, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) cornmeal 2 cups (240g) cornmeal
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and melted butter.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. 6.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine or medium-grind cornmeal for the best texture in the cornbread.
• Garlic powder — Adjust the amount of garlic powder according to your preference for a stronger or milder garlic flavor.
• Paprika — Use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference for a subtle or smoky flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy crust, brush the top of the cornbread with melted butter before baking.
• Serve the cornbread warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Add diced jalapenos or shredded cheese to the batter for a spicy or cheesy variation.
• Leftover cornbread can be toasted and enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the cornbread.

Serving advice

Serve the Filipino-American Style Crispy Cornbread as a side dish with grilled meats, stews, or soups. It also pairs well with barbecue dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

Presentation advice

Cut the cornbread into squares or wedges and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve on a rustic wooden board or a traditional Filipino woven banana leaf for an authentic touch.