Aunt Lulu'S Grit Bread
Aunt Lulu's Grit Bread combines sweet corn with a tender, crumbly texture, perfect for breakfast or side dishes, appealing to corn lovers and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Select 6 ears of corn just beyond the 'milk stage'.
- Cut off the cob and remove all juice, as you would for cream-style corn; you should have about 2 1/2 cups of corn.
- Sift the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar together over the raw corn; mix thoroughly.
- Stir in the well-beaten egg alternately with the melted shortening.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter bread, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar or incorporating some honey. If fresh corn isn't available, frozen corn can be used; just thaw and drain it well. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a lighter texture, so don't skip this step. For added flavor, try mixing in some herbs or spices like thyme or paprika. This dish is a wonderful complement to Southern meals, much like Old Oregon Trail Potato Doughnuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Lulu's Grit Bread warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey on top. It pairs wonderfully with hearty soups or stews and can be a delightful side for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs or even Spam Burgers. For a fresh touch, consider serving it with Spiced Peach Salad for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grit bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain the bread's moisture and texture, making it enjoyable again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lulu'S Grit Bread contains roughly 311 calories, with 10g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (284% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1491mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of corn for this recipe?
While sweet corn is traditional, you can experiment with different varieties. Just ensure they are at their peak ripeness for the best flavor. If using canned corn, drain it well and reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum to help with the texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
How can I make this bread more savory?
To enhance the savory profile, try adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the batter. You could also mix in cooked and crumbled bacon or sautéed onions for extra flavor. This makes it a great accompaniment to a hearty meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).