Cornbread Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cornbread

[ˈkɔːn.brɛd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

food

Cornbread is a type of bread made from cornmeal, often baked or fried. It is a popular side dish in Southern cuisine.

Synonyms

corn cake, corn dodgers, corn pone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cornbread	Commonly used in general American and Southern cuisine to describe a quick bread made with cornmeal. Suitable for everyday meals or as a staple side dish. She served the chili with a slice of warm cornbread Cornbread and butter was a perfect pairing
corn cake	Often used to describe a sweeter, more cake-like variant of cornbread that may include added ingredients like sugar and blueberries. Ideal for dessert or special occasions. For dessert, we had blueberry corn cake with a dollop of cream His birthday cake was a sweet corn cake
corn pone	Denotes a type of cornbread that is simpler and typically less sweet. Associated with rural or Southern cuisine and often baked in a skillet. Sometimes carries a connotation of being old-fashioned or rustic. They made a big batch of corn pone for the campfire meal Granny's corn pone was always a family favorite
corn dodgers	Refers to small, thick cornbread patties or balls. This term is more historical and often associated with pioneer or cowboy cuisine. Can be used in a nostalgic or rustic setting. The pioneers ate corn dodgers on the trail He tried an old recipe for corn dodgers from a frontier cookbook

Examples of usage

Would you like some cornbread with your meal?
The cornbread was perfectly moist and delicious.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

This bread has roots in Native American cooking, where corn was a staple food long before European settlers arrived.
In the American South, it became a popular dish during the 19th century, often served as a side with meals.
Different regions have unique recipes; for instance, Southern cornbread is often less sweet and more crumbly.

Cultural Significance

Cornbread is often associated with soul food, a cuisine that reflects the history and culture of African Americans.
It's a common dish at Thanksgiving dinners in the U.S. and often accompanies savory foods like turkey and greens.
In rural communities, cornbread is sometimes made in a cast-iron skillet to create a crispy crust.

Varieties

There are many styles, such as Southern cornbread, which is usually made with less sugar and more buttermilk.
Certain recipes incorporate ingredients like cheese, jalapeños, or even sweeteners like honey to provide different flavors.
Corn muffins are a sweeter, portable variation that's often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.

Nutrition

Cornmeal, the main ingredient, is rich in carbohydrates and provides energy, but it lacks some proteins found in wheat flour.
When made with whole grain cornmeal, it can be a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion.
Typically, it's lower in gluten than traditional bread, making it a preferred option for those sensitive to gluten.

Modern Trends

Recently, many chefs have experimented with cornbread by adding unusual ingredients such as smoked meat or gourmet cheeses.
The rise of gluten-free diets has led to cornbread's popularity as a bread alternative for those avoiding gluten.
Cornbread is often featured in food festivals across the U.S., showcasing its versatility and cultural heritage.

Origin of 'cornbread'

The history of cornbread dates back to Native American tribes who first ground corn into cornmeal. Cornbread became popular in the Southern United States due to the abundance of corn crops. It was a staple in the diets of many early settlers and continues to be a beloved comfort food today.