Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
  • 0.25 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then, add in the buttermilk and vegetable oil, mixing until smooth. If using honey, stir it in as well.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños to the batter, mixing gently to incorporate.
  6. Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray. Pour the appropriate amount of batter onto the iron (about 1/2 cup or as suggested by the manufacturer), lower the lid, and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy, usually about 5 minutes.
  7. Carefully remove the waffles and keep them warm in a low oven while you repeat with the remaining batter.
  8. Serve the waffles hot, garnished with chopped chives, and enjoy on their own or with butter, syrup or a dollop of sour cream for an extra kick.

💡 Chef's Notes

Serve with butter, syrup, or sour cream for added flavor.

Recipe by Eleanor Whitford - Culinary Writer