Liaoning-style Blueberry Cornmeal Cakes

Ingredients

In this Liaoning-style adaptation, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Liaoning cuisine. The addition of cornmeal adds a unique texture and flavor to the traditional blueberry muffins, giving them a savory twist. The use of local Liaoning blueberries enhances the sweetness and freshness of the dish, while still maintaining the essence of the original American recipe. We alse have the original recipe for New Jersey Blueberry Muffins, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (150g) fresh blueberries (preferably Liaoning blueberries) 1 cup (150g) fresh blueberries (preferably Liaoning blueberries)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 9g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. 5.
   Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.
6. 6.
   Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. 7.
   Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine or medium-grind cornmeal for a smoother texture in the cakes.
• Fresh blueberries — Rinse the blueberries gently and pat them dry before folding them into the batter to prevent excess moisture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more savory twist, you can add a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder to the batter.
• Serve the Liaoning-style Blueberry Cornmeal Cakes warm with a dollop of Liaoning-style fermented bean curd for a unique flavor combination.
• If fresh blueberries are not available, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

Serving advice

Enjoy the Liaoning-style Blueberry Cornmeal Cakes as a delightful breakfast or snack. Serve them warm with a cup of Liaoning black tea for a perfect pairing.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Liaoning-style Blueberry Cornmeal Cakes on a platter and sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Garnish with a few fresh blueberries and a sprig of mint for a pop of color.