That first cool breeze. That first day where the temps don’t reach 70 degrees. When we can open the windows and breathe a sigh of relief. The heat is finally over. That’s when my husband and I give each other knowing looks: it’s CHILI time!
I love to make a big pot of Texas Red chili. It’s spicy, hearty, and so satisfying. It takes the better part of a day to make, but what better way to pass Sunday afternoon then to have a pot simmering on the stove, with football on TV, while the cool autumn breeze blows in? I have one idea:
Make cornbread to go with the chili.
I am a huge fan of cornbread, but I’m kind of picky about it. It needs to be slightly sweet, and it must not be dry. This skillet cornbread fits those requirements perfectly. It’s moist, subtly sweetened with honey, and has these lovely crispy edges from the skillet that are delightful. Sure, you can stir in some whole corn kernels, jalapenos, cheese, or whatever you fancy, but it’s wonderful just as is.
Especially when sitting alongside that bowl of Texas Red.
Skillet Cornbread (gluten-free, dairy-free)
1 c gluten-free cornmeal
2/3 c tapioca flour
1 t kosher salt
1 T baking powder
Juice of 1 lemon
About 7/8 c coconut milk
½ c water
1 egg
2 T honey
½ t baking soda
6 T vegan butter (Earth Balance buttery sticks)
Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
Combine cornmeal, tapioca flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl and whisk together.
Add the lemon juice to a measuring cup and pour enough coconut milk to measure 1 full cup. Add ½ cup of water, the egg, and the honey. Whisk together. Add the baking soda and whisk again.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk together until combined.
Heat a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add vegan butter and swirl until melted. Brush butter along sides of skillet. Carefully pour the butter into the bowl with the cornbread batter and whisk to combine. Pour the batter into the skillet and spread out evenly on the surface.
Bake for 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Serve in wedges, warm from the skillet.
Serves about 8.
