Balkan Style Savory Cornbread

Balkan Style Savory Cornbread is a delightful twist on the classic American cornbread, infused with the bold flavors of the Balkans. With tangy feta cheese, fresh parsley and dill, this savory treat is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup cornmeal, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon paprika.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, sugar, and paprika.

In a separate bowl, whisk together softened butter, buttermilk, and egg.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Do not overmix.

Fold in crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.

Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.

Smooth the top and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with black pepper.

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Don’t overmix the batter, as it can result in a dense cornbread.

Make sure to use room temperature buttermilk for the best results.

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice.

Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

To ensure the cornbread is fully cooked, check that it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

You can customize the recipe to your taste by adding other herbs like chives or scallions to the batter.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

This cornbread pairs well with a hearty bowl of soup or a fresh green salad.

Nutrional Value

• Calories: 342
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 64mg
• Sodium: 441mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 39g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 10g