Hot Water Cornbread

If you’re craving a warm, crispy, and buttery side that’s simple but full of flavor, look no further than hot water cornbread. It’s an old-school Southern classic that has a rich, golden exterior with a soft, tender inside. Imagine the crunch as you bite into it, with a slight sweetness that perfectly complements savory dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, or even just a bowl of soup. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again—because there’s nothing like fresh, homemade cornbread!

Why You’ll Love Hot Water Cornbread

Hot water cornbread is the definition of comfort food. It’s nostalgic, crispy, and so easy to make. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

Quick and Easy

This recipe doesn’t require a lot of time or complicated ingredients. With a few simple pantry staples—cornmeal, flour, hot water, and a little salt—you can whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for when you want something homemade, without the fuss.

Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside

The best part of hot water cornbread is the texture. The outside gets golden and crispy while the inside stays soft and fluffy. Each bite is the perfect combination of crunch and tenderness, making it totally addictive.

Versatile Side Dish

Hot water cornbread pairs well with so many meals. Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken, smothered pork chops, or just enjoying it with a bowl of chili, this cornbread is a crowd-pleaser. You can even top it with a dollop of honey or butter for an extra special treat.

Budget-Friendly

No need to break the bank here! Hot water cornbread is made with basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s the kind of dish that’s not only affordable but still makes you feel like you’re eating something homemade with love.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crispy, golden hot water cornbread:

• Cornmeal: The star of the show. Cornmeal gives the bread its signature texture and flavor.
• Flour: Helps create the perfect balance of tenderness and structure.
• Salt: Just a pinch to bring out the flavors of the cornmeal.
• Baking Powder: This adds a little lift to the cornbread, making it light and fluffy.
• Hot Water: The key ingredient that gives hot water cornbread its soft texture and allows the dry ingredients to come together.
• Oil (or Bacon Drippings): For frying. This creates a crispy crust and adds flavor to the cornbread.

(Note: The full ingredients list with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get frying and create that perfect hot water cornbread!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir them together until they are well blended.

Add the Hot Water

Gradually pour the hot water into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to form a thick batter. The texture should be like a soft dough that you can easily shape with your hands. If it’s too dry, add a little more hot water until it comes together.

Shape the Cornbread

Once your batter is ready, scoop out spoonfuls of the dough and shape them into small patties. You can make them as big or small as you like, but typically they’re about the size of a small pancake.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of oil (or bacon drippings, if you prefer that rich flavor) over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan so the cornbread crisps up nicely.

Fry the Cornbread

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Fry the cornbread for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat as you go—too high, and they’ll burn, too low, and they won’t crisp up properly.

Drain and Serve

Once your cornbread is golden and crispy on both sides, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Enjoy!

Serve the cornbread hot, right out of the skillet. Whether you eat it on its own, dip it in soup, or serve it alongside a hearty meal, it’s sure to be a hit.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to cook or fry]
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Hot Water Cornbread

Hot water cornbread is a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Fried Chicken: The crispy, golden cornbread complements the crunchy, savory fried chicken perfectly.
• Collard Greens: Add a serving of this classic Southern vegetable alongside your cornbread for a hearty meal.
• Chili: Serve hot water cornbread with a big bowl of chili for a satisfying and comforting dinner.
• Gravy or Honey: For a special touch, drizzle some gravy over your cornbread, or add a bit of honey for sweetness.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: While this recipe is best served fresh, you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time to save a few minutes when you’re ready to cook.
• For Extra Flavor: If you want to add a twist to your cornbread, stir in some chopped green onions, jalapeños, or cheese to the batter before frying.
• Use Bacon Drippings: If you want to bring in even more Southern flavor, try frying the cornbread in bacon drippings instead of oil. It gives the cornbread a rich, savory flavor.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet for a crispy finish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make hot water cornbread without flour?
A1: Yes! You can make a purely cornmeal version if you prefer. The texture will be a bit denser, but it’s still delicious.

Q2: Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
A2: Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even olive oil. Bacon drippings are a popular choice in Southern cooking, but feel free to use whatever oil you have on hand.

Q3: Can I make hot water cornbread without frying it?
A3: While frying is traditional, you could bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. They won’t have the same crispy texture but will still be delicious!

Q4: Can I freeze hot water cornbread?
A4: Yes! Let the cornbread cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat it in a skillet or the oven for the best texture.

Hot water cornbread is one of those simple dishes that packs so much flavor and nostalgia into every bite. With its crispy, golden edges and soft, tender center, it’s a perfect side that will always satisfy!

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