Dear Canada: A step back in time

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal, plain
• 1 cup whole wheat or plain unbleached flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• teaspoon baking soda
• Sift the dry ingredients together

In a separate bowl combine the following:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• Splash of orange juice (to activate the soda)

DIRECTIONS:

* Make sure to get a grown-up's permission to use the stove!

Beat the liquids together with a fork or whisk.

Slowly pour into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring as you go. When the mixtures are combined, pour this into a well-oiled 10 ½–inch cast-iron skillet or 9–inch square cake pan.

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 45 minutes, or until the bread top turns brown. You can test the readiness of your bread by inserting a toothpick in the centre. If it comes out clean, your cornbread is ready.

Cut into wedges and serve warm with butter.