Easy Southern Fried Cornbread Recipe
This Easy Southern fried cornbread recipe promises a taste of home-cooked goodness that will transport you straight to the heart of the South. Get ready to discover the magic of this beloved comfort food. Learn how to whip up a batch of this easy recipe that’ll have your taste buds dancing with delight.
If you’re craving a taste of the South and in search of comfort foods that warm the soul, you’ve come to the right place. I am sharing an easy Southern fried cornbread recipe that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. This southern staple is cherished for its simplicity, relying on basic ingredients like regular cornmeal, butter, and a dash of salt to create a dish that’s crispy, golden, and oh-so-satisfying.
Fried cornbread is one of my Southern favorites. Growing up, I remember my grandmother mixing the cornmeal with her hands & dropping spoonfuls into a hot skillet to make cornbread patties. She would often serve it with pork, collard greens & black-eyed peas. Oh, the memories all coming back to me with her whipping up all these delicious southern recipes in the kitchen!
What is fried cornbread, and how does it differ from regular cornbread?
Fried cornbread, often known as hoecakes or Johnny cakes. Cornbread that is cooked in a skillet with oil or butter until it’s crispy on the outside. It differs from regular cornbread, which is typically baked in the oven and has a softer texture.
Tools needed
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring Cup
- Knife
- Paper towels
Easy Southern Fried Cornbread Recipe
This simple recipe using just the following ingredients delivers delicious, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside Southern fried cornbread that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup regular cornmeal
- 2/3 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 hot skillet
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Bacon Grease or Vegetable Oil
Note: For sweet cornbread, add a little sugar to your mixture before frying it up!
Directions
- Preheat the Skillet: Place the hot skillet on the stove top over medium-high heat. Add bacon grease or vegetable oil.
- Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the regular corn meal and salt. Stir them together until well combined.
- Add the Butter: Once the butter in the skillet is completely melted and sizzling, carefully pour it into the cornmeal mixture. Be cautious as it will be very hot.
- Stir and Form: Quickly stir the mixture to incorporate the hot butter. The heat from the butter will start to cook the cornmeal. Continue to stir until the mixture comes together and forms a thick batter.
- Spoon into the Skillet: Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, carefully spoon portions of the cornbread batter into the hot skillet. You can make them as large or small as you prefer.
- Fry the Cornbread: Let the cornbread cook in the skillet until the edges become golden brown and crispy and the center is cooked through. This should take about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Flip and Repeat: Carefully flip the cornbread using a spatula and cook the other side until it’s golden brown and crispy as well. You will see little bubbles on the top of the batter.
- Serve: Once both sides are nicely fried and the cornbread is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Commonly Asked Questions
What type of cornmeal is best for fried cornbread?
You can use regular cornmeal for fried cornbread. Yellow or white cornmeal both work well. Stone-ground cornmeal can add a rustic texture and flavor.
Do I need to add any leavening agents like baking powder to fried cornbread?
Fried cornbread recipes often omit leavening agents, resulting in a denser texture. However, you can add the leavening agent of 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder to make a self-rising cornmeal. This will give it a rise when making fried cornbread.
Can you use cornbread mix to make fried cornbread?
Yes, you can use cornbread mix to make fried cornbread. Using a cornbread mix can make the process even quicker and easier. Prepare according to the package instructions, usually requiring eggs and milk or water & ladle to drop portions of the prepared cornbread batter into the skillet.
What’s the best fat to use for frying cornbread?
Butter, vegetable oil, or bacon drippings are commonly used fats for frying cornbread. Each imparts its unique flavor to the cornbread.
How hot should the skillet be for frying cornbread?
The skillet should be hot, but not smoking. Preheat it over medium-high heat, and then add the fat. You’ll know it’s ready when the fat sizzles when you add the cornbread batter.
What’s the ideal thickness for frying cornbread?
Fried cornbread can vary in thickness, but it’s often made in small, thin rounds or patties, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Thinner cornbread will cook faster and be crispier.
How long should I fry cornbread on each side?
The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the cornbread and the heat of the skillet. Generally, fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until it’s golden brown and crispy.
Can I make fried cornbread in advance and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can make fried cornbread in advance and reheat it in the oven or a toaster oven to restore its crispiness.
Can I freeze fried cornbread?
Yes, you can freeze fried cornbread. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat it in the oven or toaster oven when ready to enjoy.
Variations for this Classic Southern Recipe
Serve your hot and crispy Southern fried cornbread as a side dish to complement hearty stews, fried chicken, and savory dishes, or indulge in it as a standalone treat with a drizzle of golden honey, or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. For the ultimate Southern experience, consider pairing it with creamy, homemade gravy, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to become a cherished comfort food tradition in your kitchen. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, this easy Southern fried cornbread recipe will add a touch of Southern hospitality to your table, leaving everyone craving seconds.
Fun Fact about Cornbread
A fun and interesting fact about Native Americans and fried cornbread is that they have a long history of making a similar dish called “frybread.” Frybread is a popular food in many Native American tribes, and its history is rooted in the forced relocation of indigenous peoples in the 19th century.
While not identical to Southern fried cornbread, frybread is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Native American culinary traditions in the face of adversity. Today, it remains an important and beloved part of Native American culture and cuisine, enjoyed at powwows, festivals, and family gatherings across the United States.
Final thoughts…
This easy Southern fried cornbread recipe is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the South. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a sizzling hot skillet, you can create a dish that’s crispy, golden, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve it as a side to complement hearty meals, drizzle it with honey for a touch of sweetness, or smother it in savory gravy, this Southern staple is a true comfort food that brings a taste of the South to your table. It’s a simple yet delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, reminding us of the warmth and hospitality that Southern cuisine is known for. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the Southern spirit, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Southern fried cornbread.
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Can I put corn kernels in it? I kinda remember eating some with little pieces of corn in them. I assume it won’t hurt.
Great question! Yes,absolutely! You will need to grind the kernels first then add some to the batter. It will be so delicious!
Your fried cornbread recipe shows in the ingredient list but it never shows how much water. Please reply, as this looks just what my grandmother used to make and I sure miss this. Her cornbread bread recipe was cornmeal, water , baking soda and baking powder and salt, never any sugar. This I made once that it tasted like hers but I didn’t write down amounts. She was a cajun cook and spoke mostly Cajun French and never measured anything, it was an pance(pinch) a large pinch.
Hello Gwen, thank you for your comment. I apologize that it wasn’t listed. I fixed it in post. I love your story. There are so many ways to make fried cornbread. My grandmother was a simple cooking Southern woman. She kept ingredients very simple. If it taste good, she was happy! 🙂