Krayl’s Cast Iron Cornbread + Poblano Sticks

There are few things in life that can represent comfort of the past in the way food can… hopefully my Cornbread + Poblano Corn Sticks will soon be added to your short list of comfort foods.

A familiar smell coming from your childhood kitchen, the aroma of soup brought to you, home from school sick in bed on rainy fall day. Food evokes memories we have long forgotten with just a whif coming from a doorway passing by on the street, or the first bite of a buttered roll at a new restaurant – at once unexpected and familiar.

My Cornbread Comfort :: swinging opening the garage door at my Grandparents home after a long drive down from Connecticut, stepping up into the kitchen, warm air filled with the sounds of family laughter coming from the living room hitting you as you enter. A big pot of chili, still steaming hot, placed on a worn out potholder to protect the counter top. Bowls of rice, grated cheese and bottle of hot sauce to add as you like. And there in a side basket, most likely lined with a cloth napkin, bright yellow, just slightly brown on the edges, the corn muffins would sit, waiting to be topped with cold butter then dunked into the chili. Welcome home.

I am not sure if they were homemade, as the chili was, or from a box mix but no matter, each bite was a combination of sweet and salty. Warm and crumbly. Each bite filling with memories that feel real as I write this moment in my office as if I am right there back in the kitchen 20 + years ago listening to the adults talk and share stories.

And still to this day, I can not eat chili without corn muffins. Admititly, I frequently quickly make them from a box mix, however given my husbands love for poblano peppers I thought I would mix it up a bit and add a little color and a touch of heat to a classic. And don’t get me started on this cute as a button corn stick pan from Lodge Cast Iron – perfect for a side to chili or as an addition to a potluck gathering. Enjoy!

 

 

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And, if you are looking for even more ways to celebrate everyday check out An Appealing Plan the book.

Call it a trend or a return to the past, but I believe we are bringing back entertaining at home, lingering over a table after a lovingly prepared meal with friends. It has been a way of life and passion of mine my entire adult life, and I am thrilled to be able to invite you on this journey with me through a year of celebrating every day. Filled with recipes, tablescapes, floral inspiration and seasonal entertaining ideas An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations, is a dream come true for me a true honor to be able to share it with you. To learn more about An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations here. And of course, share how you are celebrating everyday.