Savory Native American-Style Meat and Cornmeal Bake
Experience a hearty and flavorful dish inspired by traditional Native American cooking with this Savory Meat and Cornmeal Bake. Adapted for modern kitchens, this recipe features ground turkey or chicken combined with sweet corn, juicy grapes, and a hint of savory spices, all baked to perfection. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting family meal, this dish offers versatility and is enjoyed hot or cold. Serve it with a side of fried potatoes and gravy for a complete culinary experience. Dive into a taste of heritage that’s sure to please the whole family!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground turkey or chicken
2 lbs (raw, ground)
Oil
3 tablespoons (for cooking)
Bacon
3 slices (chopped (optional for drippings))
Whole kernel corn
2 (14 oz) cans or 2 cups (drained if canned or thawed if frozen)
Green seedless grapes
2 cups (chopped finely)
Yellow onion
1 large (diced)
Eggs
3 (beaten)
Coarse yellow cornmeal
1 1/4 cups (for mixing)
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Pam cooking spray
as needed (for greasing pans)
Paprika
optional (for seasoning)
Garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon (optional seasoning)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Native American-Style Meat and Cornmeal Bake?
It is a hearty dish inspired by traditional Native American flavors, featuring ground meat, corn, grapes, and cornmeal, designed to be enjoyed hot or cold.
What type of meat is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 pounds of ground turkey or chicken.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use 2 cups of thawed frozen corn or 2 (14 oz) cans of drained whole kernel corn.
Why are grapes included in this meat dish?
Finely chopped green seedless grapes add a unique juicy sweetness that complements the savory meat and cornmeal.
Is the bacon a mandatory ingredient?
No, the 3 slices of chopped bacon are optional and primarily used for providing flavorful drippings.
What type of cornmeal should I use?
The recipe specifies 1 1/4 cups of coarse yellow cornmeal.
How many eggs are needed for the bake?
You will need 3 beaten eggs to help bind the ingredients together.
Can this dish be served cold?
Yes, this versatile dish is enjoyable whether it is served hot or cold.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It is traditionally served with a side of fried potatoes and gravy for a complete meal.
Is this recipe easy to make for families?
Yes, it is described as an easy and comforting family recipe that is sure to please everyone.
How should the onions be prepared?
One large yellow onion should be diced before being added to the mixture.
What seasonings are used in this bake?
The dish is seasoned with pepper, and optionally with paprika and garlic salt.
How much garlic salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt as an optional seasoning.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Yes, you should use Pam cooking spray or a similar product as needed to grease your pans.
Is this dish similar to a meatloaf?
Yes, it shares characteristics with a meatloaf but features a distinct cornmeal and grape profile.
Can I substitute the ground turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a perfect substitute if you do not have ground turkey.
What kind of oil should be used?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of oil for cooking, such as vegetable or canola oil.
How should the grapes be prepared?
The 2 cups of green seedless grapes should be chopped finely.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, but you should always check your specific brand's label for processing information.
How much pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, or more to taste.
Can I add paprika?
Yes, paprika is an optional seasoning that can be added for extra flavor.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish has a hearty, slightly grainy texture from the cornmeal combined with the moisture of the meat and corn.
Can I use red grapes instead of green?
While green grapes are specified for their tart sweetness, red grapes could be used as a variation.
Is this a traditional recipe?
It is inspired by traditional Native American cooking but has been adapted for modern kitchens.
Is the meat cooked before baking?
The meat is listed as raw and ground, and it is cooked during the baking process.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients listed in total, including optional items.
Is this a good meal for large gatherings?
Yes, its hearty nature and the fact it can be served hot or cold make it excellent for gatherings.
Can I use white cornmeal instead of yellow?
Yellow cornmeal is specified, but white cornmeal can be used though it may slightly alter the flavor and color.
What kind of onion should I use?
A large yellow onion is the best choice for this savory bake.
Is this a spicy dish?
No, it is savory and mild, though you can adjust the pepper or add spices if you prefer more heat.