Easy Fried Cornmeal Cubes (Madeira Side Dish)

Today, we’re diving into a scrumptious treat with these fried cornmeal cubes (Milho Frito), a beloved Madeira side dish that’s sure to become a favourite at your dinner table. These delightful corn cubes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and a great alternative to potatoes. They can be fried the traditional way or air fried. Perfect for adding a bit of flair to your evening meal, these tasty morsels are a fantastic way to bring a touch of Madeira’s culinary charm into your home.

I first discovered these delightful cornmeal cubes while on holiday in Madeira, and I was instantly struck by how they make such a fantastic alternative to potatoes, with an incredible taste to match! I knew I had to recreate them as soon as I returned to the UK. They can be fried in the traditional way or air fried.

Ingredients

6 cups water

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 garlic cloves (minced)

1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

1 1/2 cups cornmeal/polenta (fine or course texture (heaped cups))

vegetable oil for frying

How To Make Madeira Cornmeal Cubes

In a large pot, add water, oil, garlic and salt. Bring the water to a boil.

When the water is boiling, slowly whisk in the cornmeal with a handheld whisk. Once the cornmeal is added, reduce the temperature to a simmer. Switch to a wooden spoon and keep stirring for about 10 – 15 minutes until the cornmeal thickens and starts to pull away from the sides.

Pour the cooked cornmeal into a greased baking tray. Spread the cornmeal evenly and smooth out the surface. Allow the cornmeal to cool down to room temperature and firm up. This should take about 1 hour.

Cut the cornmeal into cubes, or whatever shape you desire.

Traditional Frying Method

To a frying pan, add about a 1/2 inch of oil and heat it to medium high. Fry the cornmeal cubes in batches for about 3-5 minutes a side or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Remove the cubes to a paper towel lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with a little salt and serve immediately.

Air Fryer Corn Cubes

Spray the cubes in oil and add to the air fryer. Set the temperature at 200c/400f and cook for 15 minutes turning half way. Sprinkle with a little salt and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Fried Cornmeal Cubes are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions that pair wonderfully with these tasty cubes:

Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops. The crispy texture of the cornmeal cubes contrasts beautifully with the juicy, smoky flavours of the meat.

Seafood: Pair with grilled or fried fish, shrimp, or calamari. The lightness of seafood balances the rich, crispy cubes perfectly.

Salads: Add a fresh, vibrant salad with ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and mixed greens. A tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the savoury cornmeal cubes.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a medley of roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, courgettes/zucchini, and carrots. The natural sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the savory cornmeal cubes.

Dips and Sauces: Offer a variety of dips like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy tomato relish. These can add an extra layer of flavour and make the cubes even more irresistible.

Beans and Legumes: A hearty bean stew or a simple dish of seasoned black beans can provide a protein-rich accompaniment that pairs well with the cornmeal cubes.

Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie. The creamy and salty flavors of the cheese can enhance the taste of the crispy cornmeal cubes.

Soups and Stews: Use the cornmeal cubes as a crunchy topping for soups or stews, adding texture and flavour to each spoonful.

These serving suggestions will help you create a well-rounded and delicious meal that highlights the versatility of Fried Cornmeal Cubes. Enjoy!