Crackling Bread

Cook: 30 min

Crackling bread offers a hearty, savory flavor with crunchy cracklings, perfect for rustic meals or breakfast. Its crispy texture and bold taste make it a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups cornmeal
  • 1/2 teaspoon soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 to 1 cup cracklings
  • 3/4 to 1 cup sour milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Mix dry ingredients; stir in cracklings.
  3. Add milk; pour the mixture into a greased skillet, preferably iron.
  4. Bake for 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try using flavored cracklings like those from smoked pork. If you don’t have sour milk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust the cracklings based on your preference for texture; a bit more can add delightful crunch. This recipe is versatile and can be paired with various toppings, making it perfect for your brunch spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve crackling bread warm, sliced into wedges, with butter or your favorite jam. It pairs beautifully with Dutch Potato Salad for a hearty meal or can be enjoyed alongside a bowl of soup. Consider serving it as a side with savory dishes or even as a base for toppings like cheese or sautéed vegetables, making it adaptable for various tastes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover crackling bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crackling Bread contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1747mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

6 kcal
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.1g
Total Fat 0.1g
Carbs 1.1g
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1746.7mg 76% DV
Potassium 5.7mg
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 1.6mg
Iron 0.1mg
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 cornmeal for this recipe?

Yes, you can use fine or coarse cornmeal based on your texture preference. Fine cornmeal will yield a smoother bread, while coarse will add a bit more crunch. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly if you make significant alterations to the cornmeal type.

What can I substitute for cracklings if I want a vegetarian option?

For a vegetarian version, consider using roasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor. You could also incorporate chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the savory profile of the bread. This way, you maintain texture while making it suitable for vegetarian recipes.

How can I tell when the crackling bread is done baking?

The crackling bread is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Additionally, you can gently tap the surface; it should sound hollow. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.

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).

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