When it comes to adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your meals, look no further than the humble blue corn. This ancient grain has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and its unique flavor and texture make it perfect for a wide range of recipes. From sweet treats like waffles and muffins to savory dishes like enchiladas and pizza crust, blue corn is a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different blue corn recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for something new to try or just want to mix things up, these flavorful recipes will show you the incredible potential of this underappreciated grain.
Blue Corn Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful blue corn pancakes, perfectly paired with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional pancakes, using the natural sweetness of blue corn to add a unique flavor dimension.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4-6 pancakes)
Blue Cornbread with Honey Butter
Sweet Cornbread with a Twist: Blue Cornbread with Honey Butter
Get ready to elevate your cornbread game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of blue cornmeal with the richness of honey butter. This sweet treat is perfect for brunch, breakfast, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– Honey butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Honey Butter:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
Mix butter and honey until well combined. Serve warm cornbread with honey butter spread on top.
Blue Corn Tortillas from Scratch
Get ready to experience the authentic flavor of Mexico with these tender and slightly sweet blue corn tortillas, made from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy homemade tortillas that are perfect for wrapping your favorite fillings or using as a base for tacos.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup blue cornmeal (or 1/2 cup regular cornmeal with 1/2 cup blue cornmeal)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, blue cornmeal, and salt.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil, lime juice, and warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes pliable and smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly with your hands or a rolling pin.
6. Cook tortillas on a dry griddle or skillet over medium-high heat for 30 seconds on each side, until they are lightly browned and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Blue Cornmeal Muffins with Berries
Elevate your morning routine with these scrumptious Blue Cornmeal Muffins filled with juicy berries! These tender treats combine the earthy sweetness of blue cornmeal with the natural tartness of mixed berries for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and mixed berries.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Blue Corn Nachos with Spicy Cheese Sauce
Get ready to level up your nacho game with this sweet and spicy twist!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of blue corn tortilla chips
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together black beans and 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the bean-cheese mixture over the chips.
5. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the nachos.
7. Sprinkle remaining 3/4 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Waffles with Fresh Fruit
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious treat by combining the subtle sweetness of blue cornmeal waffles with the natural sweetness of fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, banana slices)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Cook waffles in batches, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Serve warm with fresh fruit of your choice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes for 8-10 waffles.
Blue Corn and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the vibrant flavor of blue corn with the rich taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a delicious enchilada. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together black beans, blue cornmeal, and cheddar cheese.
5. Dip each tortilla into the bean mixture, then roll up tightly.
6. Place rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Pizza Crust with Toppings
Discover the unique flavor of blue cornmeal pizza crust paired with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, bell peppers, olives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, blue cornmeal, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle.
7. Top with your favorite toppings and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blue Corn and Cheddar Biscuits
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy biscuits infused with the subtle sweetness of blue corn. Perfect for accompanying soups or salads, or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1/4 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in cheddar cheese and blue cornmeal until just combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each biscuit.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Cookies with Chocolate Chips
A sweet and crumbly treat that combines the unique flavor of blue cornmeal with the richness of dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blue Corn and Pumpkin Soup
As the seasons change, warm up with this unique and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the nutty flavor of blue corn. This recipe is a perfect blend of fall’s harvest flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 cup blue corn kernels
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled queso fresco or chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the pumpkin cubes, blue corn kernels, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with queso fresco or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Crepes with Nutella
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these delicate blue cornmeal crepes filled with rich Nutella. This unique dessert is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup Nutella
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together blue cornmeal, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Spread 1 tablespoon of Nutella on each crepe.
7. Fold the crepes in half or roll them up, depending on your preference.
8. Serve warm, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of crepes)
Blue Corn and Avocado Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the sweetness of roasted blue corn with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a quick and healthy snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue corn kernels
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss blue corn kernels with a pinch of salt and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, combine roasted blue corn, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped jalapeño.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the top and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Dumplings in Stew
This recipe adds a delightful twist to traditional cornbread dumplings by incorporating blue cornmeal, resulting in a sweet and savory addition to your favorite stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, heavy cream or whole milk, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the surface of your favorite stew, leaving some space between each dumpling.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Corn and Jalapeño Cornbread
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this unique cornbread recipe, featuring blue cornmeal and spicy jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cilantro and jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired. Enjoy!
Blue Cornmeal Banana Bread
This moist and flavorful banana bread incorporates the nutty taste of blue cornmeal, adding a unique twist to a classic recipe. Perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in blue cornmeal and optional nuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Blue Corn and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the nutty sweetness of blue corn with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms, creating a unique and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup blue cornmeal
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the blue cornmeal and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Warm the broth and add it to the saucepan, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring until absorbed before adding more.
7. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is creamy and tender.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
9. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Blue Cornmeal Scones with Lemon Glaze
Brighten up your morning with these sweet and tangy scones, featuring the natural sweetness of blue cornmeal and a burst of citrus flavor from a lemon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup blue cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it forms a cohesive mass.
6. Pat into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out scones. Gather scraps, re-form, and cut again.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over warm scones.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Summary
Discover the versatility of blue corn with these 18 flavorful recipes for every occasion! From sweet treats like Blue Cornmeal Muffins with Berries and Blue Cornmeal Banana Bread, to savory dishes like Blue Corn and Black Bean Enchiladas and Blue Cornmeal Pizza Crust with Toppings. You’ll also find a variety of breakfast options, including Blue Corn Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Blue Cornmeal Waffles with Fresh Fruit. Whether you’re looking for a snack, meal, or dessert, these blue corn recipes have got you covered!
