Farina Spoon Bread
Creamy and comforting spoon bread with a delicate cornmeal texture, perfect as a side dish or comforting main, suitable for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald milk in the top part of a double boiler.
- Slowly stir in farina and cook over boiling water until thickened.
- Add salt, baking powder, beaten egg yolks, and shortening; mix well.
- Fold in beaten egg whites gently into the mixture.
- Pour into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated moderate oven (375°F) for about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk instead of low-fat. You can substitute the farina with cornmeal for a different flavor profile. Ensure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a light and fluffy spoon bread. If you're short on time, pre-cooked farina can save you some cooking time. This dish is versatile and can be seasoned with herbs or spices for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a comforting side dish or a hearty breakfast option. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted meats or can be enjoyed with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet twist. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup. For dessert, try accompanying it with a slice of Grandma's Sweet Potato Cobbler.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spoon bread in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 30-60 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Farina Spoon Bread contains roughly 191 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1354mg per serving (59% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spoon bread a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of melted butter or vegetable oil. This will give the spoon bread a slightly different flavor but will still yield a delicious result.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the farina with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornmeal. Ensure that all your other ingredients, including baking powder, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).