Discover how to make authentic Johnny Cakes with this easy recipe. Whether you prefer them fried or baked, these golden cornmeal cakes are the ideal side dish for fish or saltfish. Enjoy a taste of Caribbean comfort food with this versatile recipe that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cornmeal

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup sugar

- 2 teaspoons baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1 cup water (or as needed)

- 1/4 cup butter or oil (for frying or baking)

Instructions:

Prepare Dry Ingredients:

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

Add Water:

  - Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, stirring until you get a thick batter. You may need more or less water, so add it slowly until the batter holds together but is not too runny.

Prepare for Cooking:

  - For frying: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.

  - For baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or dish.

Cook Johnny Cakes:

  - Fried Method: Spoon dollops of batter onto the hot skillet, flattening them slightly. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.

  - Baked Method: Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening them to about 1/2 inch thick. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and firm to the touch.

Serve:

  - Enjoy the Johnny Cakes warm with your favorite fish or saltfish dish. They can also be served as a snack or breakfast treat.

Enjoy your homemade Johnny Cakes!

Nutritional values

Cornmeal (1 cup or 160g):

   - Calories: 365

   - Protein: 7g

   - Carbohydrates: 73g

   - Fat: 2g

Benefits: A good source of carbohydrates for energy. It contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion, and provides essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup or 120g):

   - Calories: 364

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 76g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates and some protein. It is a basic ingredient in many baked goods and dishes, essential for texture and structure.

Sugar (1/4 cup or 50g):

   - Calories: 387

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 100g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Adds sweetness and energy. While it provides quick energy, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid health issues like weight gain and increased risk of diabetes.

Baking Powder (2 teaspoons or 10g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values:

   - Calories: 12

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 3g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: A leavening agent that helps baked goods rise. Essential for achieving the desired texture in recipes.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon or 3g):

   - Calories: 0

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor and can help balance sweetness and acidity. Should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Water (1 cup or 240ml):

   - Calories: 0

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Essential for hydration and mixing ingredients. It helps in creating the right consistency for batter and dough.

Butter or Oil (1/4 cup or 60ml):

   - Calories: 204

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 23g

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (for oil):

   - Calories: 240

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 27g

Benefits: Adds flavor and helps in the cooking process. Provides fats that are essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and improving texture.