Corn Pone
Corn Pone is a rustic, flavorful dish featuring tender cornmeal cakes fried to golden perfection. The savory notes of bacon drippings and green onions make it a comforting treat, perfect as a side or snack for those who enjoy hearty, Southern-style cuisine with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cornmeal, bacon drippings, salt, and chopped green onions in a bowl.
- Pour enough boiling water into the mixture to bind it together without making it too dry or mushy.
- Form the mixture into oval-shaped cakes.
- Fry the cakes in bacon drippings in a skillet for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using rendered lard instead of bacon drippings. If you prefer a vegetarian version, olive oil can be substituted, although it will alter the traditional taste. Make sure the boiling water is just enough to moisten the cornmeal without making it soupy. You can also add spices like cayenne pepper for a kick, or cheese for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Corn pone is delicious served as a side dish with hearty meals like Aunt Jan's Southern Style Ham or alongside a bowl of New Year's Black-Eyed Peas And Sausage. They can also be topped with butter or honey for a sweet treat. Pair with greens, such as Harold's Old Fashion Collard Greens, for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the corn pone cakes cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Pone contains roughly 236 calories, with 2g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 make corn pone in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the corn pone mixture ahead of time and shape it into cakes. Store them in the refrigerator and fry them just before serving for the best texture. They can be kept in the fridge for about two days before cooking.
What can I serve with corn pone?
Corn pone pairs well with a variety of dishes, especially southern favorites. It complements dishes like Scallops And Bacon or can be served alongside a hearty bowl of French Market Soup. Consider adding a salad for a fresh contrast.
Can I freeze corn pone?
Yes, you can freeze corn pone after cooking. Allow them to cool, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
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).