Hot Water Cornbread

Introdcution:

Hot Water Cornbread is a Southern classic that delivers a crisp exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. This quick and easy recipe will bring the comfort of homemade cornbread to your table with minimal effort. Perfect as a side for any meal or as a tasty snack on its own!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal mix
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• Oil for frying (extra virgin olive oil recommended)

Directions

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal mix, salt, and sugar.
   • Pour in the boiling water and stir until well mixed. The batter should be thick but pourable.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat a skillet over medium to high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.
3. Cook the Cornbread:
   • Using a regular dinner spoon, scoop two spoonfuls of batter into the hot skillet for each piece.
   • Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon to form small rounds.
   • Cook for about 1 minute on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip when the edges start to look set and the bottom is golden.
4. Serve:
   • Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
   • Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Makes about 8 pieces (2 rounds of 4 pieces each)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: Approximately 10 minutes for all batches
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Cornbread: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Cornbread: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Herbed Cornbread: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like chives or thyme for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness. Alternatively, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, you can use any cooking oil you prefer, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
2. Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best to make the batter just before cooking for the best texture. However, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
3. What if I don’t have a cornmeal mix? You can use plain cornmeal and add 1 tsp of baking powder to make up for the leavening agent in the mix.
4. Can I bake this cornbread instead of frying it? This recipe is specifically for frying, but you can try baking it in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-15 minutes if preferred.
5. How do I know when the cornbread is done? The cornbread is done when it is golden brown and crispy on both sides.
6. Can I freeze hot water cornbread? Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container before freezing. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
7. What can I serve with hot water cornbread? It pairs well with soups, stews, and fried dishes. It’s also great with a dollop of honey or butter.
8. How do I prevent the cornbread from sticking to the skillet? Ensure the oil is hot before adding the batter and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
9. Can I make mini cornbread cakes with this recipe? Yes, you can use a mini muffin pan or a smaller skillet to make bite-sized cornbread cakes.
10. What if my batter is too thick? Add a little more boiling water, a tablespoon at a time, until the batter reaches the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Hot Water Cornbread is a delightful, quick-to-make treat that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. With its crispy exterior and tender inside, this cornbread is sure to complement any meal or stand on its own as a delicious snack. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this classic favorite!

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