Over 20 Of the Best Goya Cornmeal Recipes

Cornmeal, also known as polenta or grits, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes. One of the most popular brands of cornmeal is Goya, which has been providing high-quality products for over 80 years. Whether you're looking for a classic Southern-style breakfast or a flavorful dinner option, Goya cornmeal recipes have got you covered.

From sweet cornbread to savory grits and everything in between, this humble ingredient can be transformed into delicious meals with just a few simple additions. With its mild flavor and smooth texture, it's no wonder why so many people love cooking with Goya cornmeal.

What is Goya Cornmeal?

Goya Cornmeal is a popular ingredient in Latin American cuisine. It is made from ground corn that has been dried and then finely milled into a powder. This versatile product can be used in various dishes, including tortillas, tamales, and baked goods.

One of the benefits of using Goya Cornmeal is its nutritional value. It is high in fiber and contains essential vitamins such as vitamin B6 and folate. Additionally, it is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

When cooking with Goya Cornmeal, it's important to remember that different types are available on the market. Fine cornmeal works well for baking, while coarse cornmeal is better suited for savory dishes like polenta or grits.

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Here’s a list of our favorite Goya Cornmeal recipes that you’ll surely love:

Classic Cornbread

At its core, cornbread is made with cornmeal, which gives it its distinct flavor and texture. The cornmeal can be mixed with flour and other ingredients like sugar, baking powder, eggs, milk, or buttermilk to create different variations of the classic recipe. 

A classic cornbread should have a slightly sweet taste with a crispy exterior and moist interior. The texture should not be too dense nor too crumbly – it should hold together without being dry or tough.

Cornmeal Muffins with Honey Butter

Are you a fan of muffins but want to try something new and exciting? Look no further than cornmeal muffins with honey butter! These delicious treats are a Southern staple that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. 

Cornmeal muffins are made using cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, and milk. The result is a slightly sweet yet savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich sweetness of honey butter. This combination is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Honey butter is simply a mixture of softened butter and honey whipped together until smooth and fluffy. It adds a luxurious touch to any baked good and perfectly complements the earthy flavors in the cornmeal muffin. So why not try this delightful combination for yourself? You won't be disappointed!

Citrus Cornmeal Cake

If you're a fan of desserts that are both tangy and sweet, then you might want to try citrus cornmeal cake. This dessert is a classic Southern dish, which combines cornmeal's crunchiness with citrus fruit's tartness. Citrus cornmeal cake is typically made with ingredients like sugar, flour, eggs, butter, baking powder, soda, lemon, or orange zest.

One reason why people love citrus cornmeal cake is because it's easy to make. You don't need any fancy equipment or cooking skills to whip up this dessert at home. All you need is a mixing bowl, an oven, and some basic kitchen tools like spoons and measuring cups. Plus, you can customize your citrus cornmeal cake recipe by adding different types of fruits or spices depending on your taste preferences.

Fluffy Cornmeal Pancakes

Cornmeal pancakes are a classic breakfast dish that is loved by people of all ages. These fluffy pancakes are made using cornmeal, which gives them a unique and distinct flavor. If you have never had cornmeal pancakes before, then you're missing out on one of the most delicious breakfast foods.

The process of making cornmeal pancakes is quite simple. The main ingredients that you'll need include cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, and eggs. In terms of toppings for your cornmeal pancakes, there are many options to choose from!

Tamale Pie

Tamale pie is a delicious Mexican dish that has become quite popular in the United States. It is a hearty casserole made with ground beef, cornmeal, cheese, and various toppings. The dish originated in Latin America and was brought to the U.S. by immigrants.

This type of pie can be customized to fit any taste preference by adding different ingredients such as black beans or green chilies. It's an easy meal to prepare for busy weeknights or potlucks because it can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready to serve.

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Chicken

Cornmeal-crusted fried chicken is a southern-style dish that is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. This delicious meal consists of a chicken breast or drumstick that has been coated in cornmeal and seasonings before being deep-fried to perfection. The result? A golden-brown crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Gluten-Free Cornmeal Pizza Crust

If you're looking for a gluten-free pizza crust option, then cornmeal crust could be just what you need. Cornmeal is a type of flour made from dried corn kernels that have been ground into a fine powder. It's naturally gluten-free, which makes it an ideal ingredient for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Cornmeal pizza crusts tend to be crispy and slightly denser than traditional wheat-based pizza dough. They can also have a slightly sweet taste due to the natural sweetness of the corn.

Cornmeal-Coated Fried Green Tomatoes

Cornmeal-coated fried green tomatoes are a Southern delicacy that has gained popularity throughout the United States. It is a dish made from unripe green tomatoes, coated in cornmeal, and then fried until crispy. The result is a tangy and crunchy treat that can be served as an appetizer or side dish.

Cornmeal-coated fried green tomatoes are commonly served with remoulade sauce or ranch dressing.

Sweet Cornbread Pudding

Have you ever heard of sweet cornbread pudding? It's a delicious dessert that combines the flavors of classic cornbread with the sweetness of pudding. This dish is perfect for those who love sweets but don't want anything too overwhelming.

Venezuelan Arepas

Arepas are a staple food in Venezuela and can be found throughout the country. They are made from pre-cooked cornmeal, water, and salt, and they come in many shapes and sizes.

Arepas can be eaten as a snack or as a meal. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, ham, avocado, chicken salad, or even beans. The versatility of arepas makes them suitable for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner! 

The origin of the word “arepa” is unclear but it's believed that the indigenous people in Venezuela were making similar types of bread long before the arrival of Europeans. Nowadays, Venezuelans love their arepas so much that there's even an annual festival dedicated to this tasty food!

Puerto Rican Cornmeal Cereal (Maizena or Crema de Maiz)

Puerto Rican cornmeal cereal, or “maizena” as it is known locally, is a traditional breakfast dish in Puerto Rico. It is made from cornmeal, milk, sugar, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. The ingredients are mixed together over low heat until the mixture thickens into a creamy and smooth consistency.

Maizena has been a popular breakfast choice for generations in Puerto Rico due to its filling nature and sweet taste. It's often served with toast or crackers on the side. Some people also enjoy adding fruit like bananas or strawberries to their maizena for an extra burst of flavor.

While maizena may seem simple to prepare, it requires patience and attention to detail to achieve the perfect texture. Many Puerto Ricans have fond memories of waking up early in the morning to help their grandparents or parents make this beloved dish.

Cornmeal-Crusted Fish Tacos

Cornmeal-crusted fish tacos are a delicious and popular dish that originated in Mexico. They consist of a crispy, golden-brown coating made from cornmeal that encases tender and flaky white fish. The tacos can be served with a variety of toppings, such as fresh salsa, creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and crunchy lettuce.

Cornmeal-Crusted Onion Rings

Cornmeal-crusted onion rings are a crispy and delicious snack that you can enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce. They are made by coating thick slices of sweet onions in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and spices before deep-frying them until golden brown.

The cornmeal gives the onion rings a crunchy texture while adding a subtle sweetness to the overall flavor. The addition of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper also adds depth to the taste profile.

These onion rings can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish to your favorite meal. They pair well with burgers, hot dogs, or even grilled chicken. Whether you're hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty snack to munch on, cornmeal-crusted onion rings are sure to satisfy your craving for something crispy and flavorful.

Southern-Style Hush Puppies

Southern-style hush puppies are a beloved side dish that originated in the southern United States. They are small, deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter that have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Hush puppies are often served alongside seafood dishes like fried catfish or shrimp.

The origin of the name “hush puppy” is unclear, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that during the Civil War era, Confederate soldiers would toss bits of fried cornbread to their barking dogs to keep them quiet (“Hush, puppy!”). Another theory is that they were called “hush puppies” because they were used to appease hungry children who would cry out for food (“Hush, little puppy!”).

Creamy Polenta with Roasted Vegetables

Creamy Polenta with Roasted Vegetables is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. This dish features creamy polenta, which is made from boiling cornmeal in water or broth until it becomes thick and smooth. The polenta is then combined with roasted vegetables, creating a beautiful and colorful dish that is both nutritious and satisfying.

The roasted vegetables in this dish can vary depending on your preferences, but some popular options include zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, onions, carrots, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. These vegetables are roasted in the oven until they are tender and caramelized, giving them a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy polenta.

Overall, Creamy Polenta with Roasted Vegetables is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthy yet flavorful meal.

Cornmeal Apple Cake

Cornmeal apple cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that features the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This cake is made with cornmeal, which gives it a unique texture, and fresh apples, which add natural sweetness to the dish. If you're looking for an impressive dessert that will leave your guests begging for more, then look no further than this delightful treat.

Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish

Cornmeal-crusted catfish is a popular Southern dish that combines the flavors of crispy cornmeal coating with tender, flaky catfish. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides and sauces.

Fried Cornmeal Okra

Fried cornmeal okra is a dish that is popular in Southern American cuisine. It's a simple yet delicious recipe made with sliced okra coated in seasoned cornmeal and then fried until it's crispy golden brown. The dish has a crunchy exterior and a tender, succulent center.

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Shrimp

Cornmeal-crusted fried shrimp is a popular Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy fresh shrimp. The dish consists of plump and juicy shrimp coated in cornmeal, then deep-fried until golden brown.

Skillet Cornbread with Bacon and Cheddar

If you're looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast or snack, then skillet cornbread with bacon and cheddar is the perfect dish to try. This Southern classic is made with simple ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store. Cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, baking powder, salt, bacon crumbles, and grated cheddar cheese are all combined in a cast-iron skillet and baked to golden perfection.

The result is a savory treat that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside with bits of smoky bacon and melted cheese throughout. The combination of salty bacon and sharp cheddar complements the sweetness of the cornmeal perfectly. It's a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of day – from breakfast to dinner or as a side dish at your next barbecue or potluck.

Cornmeal-Crusted Crab Cakes

Cornmeal-crusted crab cakes are a delicious seafood dish that is popular in many parts of the world. These cakes are typically made with fresh crab meat, bread crumbs, cornmeal, eggs, and a variety of herbs and spices. They are then fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Goya Cornmeal is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create various delicious recipes. There is no shortage of possibilities, from classic cornbread to savory arepas and even sweet desserts.

Whether you're an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So why not give Goya Cornmeal a try in your next meal? Your taste buds will thank you!