Fried Corn Bread

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Fried corn bread offers a crispy exterior with a tender, moist inside, featuring the hearty flavor of cornmeal. Perfect as a snack or side dish, it pairs well with savory stews or enjoyed on its own. Its simple ingredients make it accessible for quick, satisfying comfort food.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. self-rising cornmeal
  • pinch or more salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 c. buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Drop by tablespoonful into deep fat and fry until golden brown.
  2. Turn the pieces over to brown evenly on all sides.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crispy texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; it should shimmer but not smoke. You can substitute plain cornmeal with self-rising flour if you don't have self-rising cornmeal, but adjust the baking powder accordingly. Adding a pinch of sugar can enhance the flavor. If you want to experiment, try adding jalapeños or cheese for extra flavor, much like in Southern vegetarian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Fried corn bread makes a delightful side for soups and stews, especially Southern dishes like Scalloped Corn Casserole. Serve them warm with honey or butter for a touch of sweetness. They also pair well with savory dishes or as part of a brunch spread, alongside pancakes or a Milk Shake.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover fried corn bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side for extra crispiness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fried Corn Bread contains roughly 159 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1875mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).

159 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6g 12% DV
Total Fat 5.1g 7% DV
Carbs 22.3g 8% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 6.2g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1875mg 82% DV
Potassium 247.7mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 16.4mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 57.2mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0mg
Vitamin D 1.6mcg 8% DV
Calcium 142.9mg 11% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this fried corn bread gluten-free by using certified gluten-free cornmeal. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like buttermilk, are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

How can I make these healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, consider baking instead of frying. Drop the batter onto a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. You can also use whole grain cornmeal for added nutrition.

What can I serve with fried corn bread?

Fried corn bread pairs wonderfully with chili, soups, or salad. You could also serve it alongside fried chicken or barbecue dishes for a true Southern experience. For a sweet twist, try it with butter and syrup or honey, similar to enjoying Best Pound Cake.

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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