Baked Malai (Corn Bread)

 Ingredients: For a 9 x 9 square pan (or Romanian 22x22) 1 cup (125 gr) flour 1 cup (150 gr) cornmeal 1/4 cup (50 gr) sugar 4 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup (250 ml) milk 2 eggs 1/4 cup (1 and a half tablespoons) lard. For a 13x9 pan (or Romanian 33x23) 2 cups (250 gr) flour 2 cups (300 gr) cornmeal 1/2 cup (100 gr) sugar 7 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons salt 2 cups (500 ml) milk 4 eggs 1/2 cup (3 good tablespoons) lard.

To prepare a delicious and fluffy corn bread, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. You will need 200 g of flour, 200 g of cornmeal, 100 g of sugar, 1 packet of baking powder, and a teaspoon of salt. These ingredients should be mixed together in a large bowl, ensuring they are well combined to achieve a uniform texture.

After mixing the dry ingredients, it's time to add the milk. Use about 500 ml of milk, which you will gradually pour into the mixture, continuously stirring with a whisk or spatula. It is essential to do this carefully to avoid forming lumps. Next, add two beaten eggs, which will add moisture and help aerate the dough. Also, add 100 ml of oil or melted butter, which will provide a rich flavor and a soft texture. Once you have added all the wet ingredients, use an electric mixer to beat the mixture for about a minute until it becomes smooth and fluffy.

Prepare a baking tray, which you will grease with oil to prevent the dough from sticking. You can use a medium-sized tray, about 20x30 cm, or opt for individual molds for smaller portions. Carefully pour the dough into the tray, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Then, preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) or to gas mark 7. Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, place the tray inside and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. It is important to check the consistency of the bread: you can poke it with a toothpick, and if it comes out clean, it means it is ready.

This corn bread is usually served warm, alongside stuffed cabbage rolls or other traditional dishes. It can also be enjoyed plain, spread with butter and jam, a popular variation in American style. Its inviting aroma and fluffy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Enjoy your meal!

 Tags:  eggs milk flour cream sugar croissants vegetarian recipes