Fire-Roasted Maryland Chesapeake Cornbread on the Grill

Introduction

Nothing compares to the rich, smoky flavor of Fire-Roasted Maryland Chesapeake Cornbread cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Made from fresh Eastern Shore corn and grilled on the flat cooktop, this cornbread has a crispy golden crust with a tender, moist crumb. Cooking it on the griddle ensures an even sear without burning, locking in those delicious flavors. Follow these steps to create a cornbread masterpiece that embodies the best of Maryland’s flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh Eastern Shore corn, cut off the cob
• 1 1/2 cups cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter (plus more for grilling)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
4. Light the paper and wait about 20 minutes until the grill is ready.

Step 2: Prepare the cornbread batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sea salt, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Fold in the fresh corn, shredded cheese, and chopped scallions.

Step 3: Preheat the griddle and add butter

1. Once the Arteflame cooktop is hot, melt a generous amount of butter evenly over the griddle.
2. Ensure the butter covers enough surface area to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the cornbread

1. Pour the batter onto the buttered cooktop in evenly sized portions, shaping them into thick pancakes.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
3. Flip carefully and cook another 5 minutes until cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove from the grill and allow to cool slightly.
2. Drizzle with extra honey or serve with butter for added flavor.

Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Rotate the cornbread on the griddle to ensure even cooking.
• Use more butter for extra crisp, golden edges.

Variations

1. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread: Add diced fresh jalapeños and extra sharp cheddar for a spicy kick.
2. Smoky Bacon Cornbread: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon and a touch of smoked paprika.
3. Crab Chesapeake Cornbread: Fold in lump Maryland crab meat for seafood lovers.
4. Sweet Maple Cornbread: Replace the honey with maple syrup for a subtle sweetness.
5. Herb & Garlic Cornbread: Add fresh chopped rosemary and roasted garlic for rustic flavors.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Maryland Crab Cakes
• Smoked BBQ Ribs
• Wood-Fired Garlic Shrimp
• Buttery Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Chesapeake Spiced Chicken

Conclusion

Grilling this Fire-Roasted Maryland Chesapeake Cornbread on the Arteflame brings out incredible textures and flavors, making it the perfect side dish for any barbecue. Enjoy the crispy edges and tender bite, all infused with rich, smoky goodness.