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Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will form the base of your cornbread.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add the buttermilk and melted butter. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick but pourable—similar to pancake batter. If it feels too thick, add a little more buttermilk to loosen it up.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to fry the cornbread without it swimming in the pan. The oil should be hot, but not smoking. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small spoonful of the batter into the pan—if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go.
3. Fry the Cornbread:
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter into the hot oil, spacing them out evenly. You can fry the cornbread in batches, depending on the size of your pan. Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of the spoon to form a small patty shape.
Fry the cornbread for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the cornbread carefully, ensuring both sides are crispy and evenly browned.
4. Drain and Serve:
Once the cornbread is fried to perfection, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the cornbread crispy.
Serve your crispy fried cornbread hot, alongside your favorite meal. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Crispy Fried Cornbread
- Use the Right Pan: A cast iron skillet is ideal for frying cornbread because it distributes heat evenly and creates a wonderfully crispy texture. However, any heavy-bottomed frying pan will do.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the batter is too thick, it will result in a dry, dense cornbread. If it’s too thin, it may not hold its shape when frying. Aim for a batter that is thick, but still spoonable.
- Make It Spicy: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeño slices to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Sweet or Savory: If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, increase the sugar slightly. For a more savory version, try adding cheddar cheese, green onions, or even bacon bits to the batter.
- Serve It Hot: Crispy fried cornbread is best enjoyed immediately after frying while it’s still hot and crispy. However, if you need to store leftovers, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or on a skillet to regain the crispiness.
Why Crispy Fried Cornbread is a Must-Have Recipe
Crispy Fried Cornbread is a quintessential Southern dish that’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. With its combination of crispy edges and soft, flavorful center, it’s the ultimate comfort food that pairs perfectly with everything from barbecue to soups. Whether you’re having a casual family meal or entertaining guests, this cornbread is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you’ve never made cornbread this way, you’re missing out on an unforgettable experience. The crispy crust and soft interior make for the perfect balance of textures, and the rich flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
So, don’t lose this recipe! Add it to your collection and enjoy the crispy, comforting goodness of fried cornbread today. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.
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