Meet Chef Michael Bonham + His Famous Cornbread Recipe

We are delighted to welcome Chef Michael Bonham as the new head of our culinary team at the Lodge Restaurant. With a passion for creating exquisite, robust meals, Chef Bonham brings fresh inspiration to every dish.
After a day of hiking, fishing, or hunting, sit down to a menu that is both satisfying and refined. Be sure to request a window seat or settle onto our outside deck for an unforgettable dining experience. Pair Chef Bonham’s creations with the breathtaking view of Lake Chelan, where the sunsets are as memorable as the meal.
His signature Bonham’s Cornbread takes everything you love about rustic mountain comfort and adds a bold twist.
Bonham’s Cornbread Recipe
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour or Gluten-Free Mix: 1/2 lb (225 g)
- Corn Flour: 1/2 lb (225 g)
- Sugar: 1/3 lb (135 g)
- Baking Powder: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Baking Soda: 0.2 oz (6 g)
- Kosher Salt: 0.6 oz (17 g)
- Eggs: 3 large
- Buttermilk: 1 1/2 cups (380 ml)
- Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: 1/4 cup (48 ml)
- Butter, melted: 1/3 lb (135 g)
- Jalapenos, minced: about 1/4 cup (45 g)
- Cheddar Cheese, shredded: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Buttered Panko: as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Mix: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free mix), corn flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.
- Prepare the Wet Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, sweet Thai chili sauce, and melted butter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixes: Gently fold the wet mix into the dry mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Jalapenos and Cheese: Fold in the minced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Spray a baking pan with oil or butter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Add Buttered Panko: Sprinkle a layer of buttered panko on top of the batter.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Finish Baking: Lower the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until fully cooked through.


