Fried Hot Water Cornbread
Fried hot water cornbread offers a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful inside, perfect as a side for Southern meals or comfort food cravings. Quick and easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the cornbread meal, butter or oil, and salt.
- Instantly pour boiling water over the mixture.
- Beat quickly and vigorously until well combined.
- Have a bowl of cold water nearby to dip your hands.
- Take about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture, form into a flat patty or round.
- Either fry immediately or place on waxed paper until all pones are shaped.
- Heat about 1.5 inches of cooking oil in a skillet until hot.
- Drop the pones into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, ensuring the inside is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding chopped green onions or jalapeños to the mixture. If you prefer a crispy texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. You can also substitute the white cornmeal with yellow cornmeal for a slightly different taste. If you want to make it healthier, consider using olive oil instead of butter or cooking oil.
Serving Suggestions
Fried hot water cornbread is delicious served warm with a pat of butter or as a side to hearty dishes like stews or soups. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple Bread Stuffing for a unique meal. You can also enjoy it as a base for toppings like chili or pulled pork for a satisfying snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator 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 for about 30 seconds but be aware they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Hot Water Cornbread contains roughly 543 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1747mg per serving (76% 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 use cold water instead of boiling water?
Using cold water will not yield the same texture; boiling water activates the cornmeal, creating the desired consistency. If you’re looking for a quicker option, try adding hot tap water, but it won't achieve the same fluffy result.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
For frying, use oils with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning, ensuring your cornbread fries evenly and develops a golden crust.
Can I freeze fried hot water cornbread?
Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the cornbread to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet for the best texture.
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).