64 delicious cornmeal recipes from around the world
Xerém is a traditional Cape Verdean dish made from ground corn (similar to polenta or grits), often prepared with coconut milk and served as a side dish or a light meal. This version includes fresh tuna and is a flavorful representation of island cuisine.
Bollos de maíz are a traditional Dominican staple, often served as a side dish with stews or meats. These cornmeal dumplings are made from a simple dough of cornmeal, water, and sometimes a touch of flour, then boiled until tender. They are known for their slightly chewy texture and mild corn flavor, making them a versatile accompaniment to a variety of savory dishes.
A hearty and nutritious dish from Cape Verde, Cuscuz com Feijão combines the comforting texture of cornmeal porridge with the earthy flavors of beans. Often served as a breakfast or a light meal, it represents the staple ingredients of the islands.
Tô (also known as Saghbo) is a fundamental staple in Burkina Faso, a smooth, dense porridge made from millet, sorghum, or corn flour, served with a flavorful sauce. This recipe features a classic okra sauce, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal that is central to Burkinabe cuisine.
Djenkoume are savory cornmeal cakes, often served as a side dish or accompaniment to stews and sauces. They are made from cornmeal cooked in a flavorful tomato and onion base, seasoned with spices, and can be formed into cakes or served as a thick porridge.
A hearty and traditional Montenegrin dish, Cicvara is a creamy, cheesy porridge made from cornmeal and young cheese (kajmak or a similar fresh cheese). It's a staple, especially in the northern mountainous regions, often served for breakfast or as a filling side dish.
Pirão de Milho is a staple Angolan side dish made from cornmeal, creating a smooth, thick porridge. It's typically served with flavorful stews and sauces, acting as a comforting and filling accompaniment.
A comforting and rustic dish featuring creamy mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) served with sautéed mushrooms and a generous dollop of rich sour cream. This is a staple in Moldovan households, often enjoyed as a side or a light meal.
A staple dish in Benin, Pâte de Maïs is a dense cornmeal paste often served with a rich and flavorful peanut sauce. This combination is hearty, satisfying, and a cornerstone of Beninese cuisine.
A quintessential Barbadian national dish, Cou-Cou is a cornmeal and okra porridge, traditionally served with steamed or fried flying fish, often in a rich tomato-based gravy.
Amiwo is a staple Beninese dish made from cornmeal, often served with a rich and savory peanut sauce. This combination is a cornerstone of Beninese cuisine, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.
A rustic and hearty cornmeal porridge, a staple in Montenegrin cuisine, typically served with cheese and sometimes kajmak or butter.
Mămăligă is a staple in Romanian cuisine, a hearty and versatile cornmeal porridge that can be served soft like a side dish or firm enough to be sliced. It's known for its simplicity, affordability, and its role as a comforting accompaniment to various Romanian dishes.
A hearty and comforting casserole from the Korça region of Albania, featuring a creamy blend of cornmeal, leeks, and local cheese, baked to golden perfection.
Pajagua Mascada is a savory, fried patty made from ground beef, cornmeal, and seasonings, often served as a side dish or appetizer. It's a flavorful and satisfying taste of Paraguayan home cooking.
A savory cornmeal pie, often featuring leeks or spinach, baked until golden and slightly crisp. It's a hearty and comforting dish, popular in various regions of Albania.
A traditional Portuguese cornmeal porridge, similar to rice pudding but made with coarse cornmeal (carolo). It's a comforting and subtly sweet dish, often flavored with citrus zest and cinnamon.
A staple dish in Burundi, consisting of firm cornmeal porridge (bugali) served with a rich, savory meat sauce made from ground beef and vegetables.
A rustic and comforting cornbread, moist and slightly sweet, made with cornmeal and milk, perfect for breakfast or as a side dish.
A hearty and comforting dish made from mashed okra and cornmeal, often served with a flavorful sauce. This version focuses on the vegetable and starch base, making it a versatile vegetarian option.
Torkarebl is a traditional Liechtensteiner dish made from a mixture of corn flour, salt, milk, and water. It has a consistency between a dumpling and porridge and is typically served with elderberry jam and a cup of coffee or milk.
Djenkoume is a traditional Togolese dish made from cornmeal, seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and red palm oil. It's often served as a side dish or accompaniment to stews and grilled meats. This recipe includes a simple tomato-based sauce to serve alongside.
A variation of the traditional Hutsul Banush, this Bukovynian version is often enriched with sour cream and served with a variety of toppings, showcasing the culinary heritage of the Carpathian region.
Fried or baked savory fritters made from cornmeal and flour, often served as a side dish or snack. They are a staple across the Caribbean, with each island having its own slight variation.
