Corn Meal Mush Recipe

History and Fun Facts
Corn meal mush, also known as cornmeal porridge, is a traditional dish that has a long history in many cultures around the world. It is believed to have originated in ancient times when corn was first cultivated in the Americas. Native American tribes, such as the Aztecs and the Mayans, used corn as a staple in their diet and created various corn-based dishes, including corn meal mush.

Corn meal mush became popular in Europe when corn was brought back by explorers and traders. It quickly spread throughout the continent and became a beloved comfort food. In the United States, corn meal mush was a common breakfast dish, particularly in rural areas where corn was abundant.

One interesting fact about corn meal mush is that it was often considered a "peasant food" because corn was inexpensive and readily available. It was a simple and hearty meal that provided sustenance for those with limited resources.

Over the years, different variations of corn meal mush have emerged. Some recipes include additional ingredients such as milk, butter, or sweeteners like sugar or maple syrup. These additions enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more delicious.

Corn meal mush is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be served as a porridge, topped with butter and milk or cream. Alternatively, it can be refrigerated and sliced into pieces, which can then be fried until golden brown. This creates a crispy and flavorful dish that can be served with maple syrup, molasses, or even savory toppings.

Recipe for Corn Meal Mush

Ingredients:
- 9 cups of water
- 2 cups of yellow granulated cornmeal
- 1-1/4 teaspoons of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of sugar
- Butter, for serving
- Milk or cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large cook-pot, bring 9 cups of water to a boil.

2. Slowly sift in 2 cups of yellow granulated cornmeal, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.

3. Once the cornmeal is fully incorporated, add 1-1/4 teaspoons of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of sugar. Continue stirring.

4. Cook the mixture for a short time, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.

5. Reduce the heat and let the mush simmer or cook slowly for four to five hours. This long and slow cooking process will enhance the flavor and texture of the corn meal mush.

6. Serve the hot corn meal mush as a porridge in individual bowls. Add 1/2 teaspoon of butter to each bowl and top with cold milk or cream.

7. If there is leftover mush, spread it in an oblong pan with a depth of several inches while it is still hot. Let it cool completely.

8. Once the mush is cold, cut it into half-inch slices. Dust each slice with flour.

9. Heat a couple of tablespoonfuls of sweet drippings and butter in a frying pan. Fry the corn meal mush slices until golden brown on both sides.

10. Alternatively, you can dip the slices of mush in beaten egg and coat them with bread crumbs before frying them in the same manner. This will create a crispy exterior.

11. Serve the fried corn meal mush slices with maple syrup, molasses, or your choice of toppings.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
Corn meal mush is similar to other corn-based dishes found worldwide. One example is polenta, a dish from Italy made with boiled cornmeal. It can be served as a porridge or cooled and cut into slices before frying or grilling.

In Jamaica, cornmeal porridge is a beloved breakfast dish. It is made with coconut milk, water, cornmeal, spices, and sweeteners like sugar and vanilla. The result is a creamy and aromatic porridge that is often enjoyed with a side of bread or fried plantains.

In Africa, a similar dish called sadza is common. It is made with finely ground cornmeal, also known as maize meal, and cooked to a thick consistency. It is a staple food in many African countries and is often served alongside stews or curries.

Overall, corn meal mush is a versatile and comforting dish that has stood the test of time. Whether enjoyed as a warm porridge or crispy fried slices, it continues to be a part of culinary traditions and is loved by many around the world.

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