Cornmeal Substitute
Out of cornmeal? Here's what to reach for, and what to skip.
Real substitutes for 1 cup of cornmeal
Polenta (coarse)
1 cup coarse polenta
Coarser than most cornmeal, giving cornbread more bite -- a close, direct swap.
Masa harina
1 cup masa harina
Finer texture and a different, more corn-tortilla flavor since it's nixtamalized -- works but changes the taste more than polenta does.
Fine breadcrumbs
1 cup fine breadcrumbs
Only a fit for cornmeal's coating/crust use, not for cornbread batter where cornmeal's flavor and texture are the point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of cornmeal for cornbread?
Coarse polenta is the closest direct swap. Masa harina works too, but it's finer and has a more distinct corn-tortilla flavor since it's nixtamalized.
Is masa harina the same as cornmeal?
No -- masa harina is made from corn that's been treated with an alkaline solution (nixtamalized), which gives it a different flavor and finer texture than regular cornmeal.
What about cornmeal used for coating or frying?
Fine breadcrumbs are the better swap there -- they're only a fit for cornmeal's coating use, not for cornbread batter where cornmeal's own flavor and texture are the point.