Savory, Lacy Corn Cakes
Ordinarily, Andrew and I go to brunch on Sundays, but this morning I suggested we make a run to our favorite grocery store (Harvest Time, a Mexican/Eastern European/Greek market) and make our own brunch at home. It saved us a little money, and if Andrew promised to do the clean up, it would mean I could get right to studying afterward.
These corn cakes are a modification of the Johnnycakes recipe in Joy of Cooking. I added a couple of tablespoons of diced red pepper, green onion and grated cheddar cheese to the batter.
I think that this is a fantastic alternative to eggs and all their variations when you’re in the mood for a savory breakfast/brunch. It’s also a great thing to serve vegetarian friends. To “veganize” the corn cakes, just omit the cheese and use margarine for cooking.
Steve Thorngate replied:
Wow. Those look amazing. But as a long-time vegetarian, I’d recommend changing your vegan version as follows:
- use the cheese, cause cheese is good
- cook them in butter, cause it’s better for both the environment and your health
- don’t be a vegan
September 23, 2007 at 8:20 pm. Permalink.
contrarycanary replied:
Ha! I’m in agreement with you, there. Mmmmm…cheese.
While we were eating these, I said to Andrew, “Next time Steve and Nadia come to visit, we should make these for breakfast.” So, come back soon!
Andrew took the picture, and I cropped it. I’ve designated him my food photographer, because his photos are always a million times better than mine.
September 23, 2007 at 8:52 pm. Permalink.
andrew replied:
TO ALL VEGANS- i heartily endorse Steve’s three step plan for adapting this recipe.
September 27, 2007 at 10:22 pm. Permalink.
mommybee replied:
I’ve never cooked with cornmeal before, what is the texture and taste of these? I’m envisioning a grainy version of hashbrowns. The picture does look wonderful though, and I just love your blog- it inspires me to start trying out new recipes! And couldn’t you also use this recipe to make your own healthy version of tortillas? Or would they crack if folded?
September 28, 2007 at 2:50 am. Permalink.
contrarycanary replied:
Have you ever had polenta? Their texture resembles that of polenta. They are slightly grainy.
I don’t think you could use this recipe to make tortillas. I believe that in order to make corn tortillas, you use masa harina. The johnnycakes would definitely break if folded.
Thanks for reading! I’m glad you are inspired!
September 28, 2007 at 1:26 pm. Permalink.