Hard Times Coffee
Hard Times Coffee is a hearty, rustic cereal made from wheat bran, cornmeal, eggs, and sorghum molasses. Perfect for a nourishing breakfast or snack, especially for those seeking traditional flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix well 2 quarts wheat bran with 1 pint yellow corn meal.
- Add 3 well beaten eggs and 1 cup sorghum molasses.
- Beat the mixture well.
- Spread the mixture on a pan and put it to dry in the oven.
- Stir often while it is browning to ensure even drying.
Tips & Substitutions
For this Hard Times Coffee recipe, ensure that the wheat bran and corn meal are mixed thoroughly for even flavor distribution. If you don't have sorghum molasses, you can substitute with regular molasses or honey. Stirring frequently while browning is crucial to prevent burning and achieve a consistent texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hard Times Coffee as a unique breakfast option or snack. It pairs beautifully with Bo'S Georgia Sawmill Gravy for a hearty meal. Consider adding fresh fruit or yogurt on the side for a balanced breakfast. This dish can also be a great addition to a brunch spread alongside other vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Once the mixture is fully dried, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing the dried mixture. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hard Times Coffee contains roughly 304 calories, with 5g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 grains in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different grains such as oat bran or even a gluten-free blend to suit your dietary needs. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly depending on the grain used.
How do I know when the mixture is properly dried?
The mixture should be dry and slightly crunchy to the touch. You can test a small piece; it should not feel moist. Browning typically takes about 30-40 minutes but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Once dried and cooled, the mixture can be frozen in an airtight container. Just ensure it's completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
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).