Edith Harris' Spoon Bread
Edith Harris' Spoon Bread offers a creamy, fluffy cornmeal dish with a delicate texture and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, add boiling water to the cornmeal and cook, stirring until it reaches a mushy consistency.
- Remove from heat.
- Add sugar, baking powder, salt, and oleo to the cornmeal mixture.
- Stir in milk and well-beaten egg yolks.
- Fold in stiffly beaten egg whites.
- Pour the batter into a greased 2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 325°F for 50 to 55 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. If you're out of oleo, unsalted butter makes a great substitute. Make sure to whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the best rise. To avoid lumps in the cornmeal mixture, stir constantly while adding the boiling water. This spoon bread can be flavored with herbs or cheese for a savory twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spoon bread warm, as it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like stews or roasted meats. It also complements breakfast items like scrambled eggs or Breakfast Donuts. Consider drizzling it with honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch, or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spoon bread in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Edith Harris' Spoon Bread contains roughly 267 calories, with 12g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1580mg per serving (69% 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 this spoon bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the casserole dish. However, the texture is best when baked fresh, as it will rise beautifully right out of the oven.
What can I serve with spoon bread?
Spoon bread is versatile! It pairs well with savory dishes like chili, fried chicken, or even with a side of Parmesan Potatoes. For breakfast, serve it alongside eggs or fruit for a delightful brunch spread. It can also be enjoyed with a dollop of butter or a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Can I freeze spoon bread?
Freezing spoon bread is possible, though it may alter the texture slightly. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven until heated through.
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).