Cornmeal

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Corn kernels and chili powder lend a southwestern accent to these muffins. They would also be nice alongside a bowl of chili.

The Masa Harina adds a pleasant flavor to the light and fluffy pancakes.

Instead of the usual corn bread or dinner rolls, try these crisp, cayenne-seasoned breadsticks. Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 2 3/4 hr

When our executive food editor, Zanne Stewart, was growing up, her family spent summers in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This recipe was inspired by a dish of chicken and dumplings she remembers well from those vacations.

Legend has it that these cornmeal and molasses rolls are named for a New England fisherman's curse on his wife: "Anna, damn her!" Regardless of what she may have done to upset her spouse, she was a great baker.

Hot pepper jelly is an unexpected taste that picks up the sweetness of the corn and cornmeal. Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 3/4 hr

This moist bread is best fresh from the oven, but it can also be made ahead and reheated.

A versatile dish for the family or for casual entertaining. The chili is also good without the cornmeal topping, served with corn bread alongside.

This heirloom recipe was given to Kathy by her grandmother. It's best when served right from the oven.

The following corn bread is not to be eaten on its own; it's meant for stuffing, so we've deliberately made it dry.

Saint André, a French triple-cream cheese, would also be nice here instead of Brie.