Nitrate & Nitrite Free English Muffins (Stovetop)
Homemade English muffins cooked low and slow on the stovetop are one of those kitchen projects that feel almost magical — a handful of pantry staples transforming into golden, nook-filled rounds that put any packaged version to shame. For anyone avoiding nitrates and nitrites, store-bought breads and processed baked goods can be a minefield of preservatives and additives hiding in plain sight on the label. This recipe sidesteps all of that entirely, relying on nothing but milk, yeast, flour, butter, salt, baking soda, and a little cornmeal for that signature crust. The slow skillet cook is what makes these special — low, patient heat builds a deep golden exterior while the inside stays soft and airy, no oven required. Splitting them with a fork rather than a knife is the move that unlocks all those irregular pockets, perfect for catching melted butter or jam. Clean ingredients, zero shortcuts, and genuinely impressive results make this one worth adding to your regular rotation.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¾ tsp fine salt
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 tbsp fine cornmeal, for dusting
Instructions
- 1
Warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat until it reaches 105–110°F (40–43°C) — it should feel warm but not hot on your wrist. Remove from heat, sprinkle in the yeast and sugar, stir briefly, and let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
Whisk the flour, salt, and baking soda together in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture and the melted butter, then stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until a shaggy, slightly sticky dough forms — it will be softer than bread dough and will not fully pull away from the bowl.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!