Henrietta Bowen'S Cornpone
Henrietta Bowen's Cornpone is a comforting, sweet and savory cornbread-like dish with a tender crumb, perfect for family dinners or nostalgic Southern-style meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening, cornmeal, water, and salt in a large saucepan and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat. Add cold milk and blend well.
- Add sugar and beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake at 425°F until browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half the cold milk with buttermilk for a slight tang. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can serve as a great alternative. Stir the batter gently once the eggs are added to maintain its fluffiness. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens vary; check for a golden top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Henrietta Bowen's Cornpone warm, drizzled with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with Mississippi Spice Muffins for a delightful breakfast or brunch spread. Try serving it alongside hearty stews or chili to complement the flavors. A fresh salad can provide a nice contrast, making it a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the corn pone in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack; just cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Henrietta Bowen'S Cornpone contains roughly 291 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2048mg per serving (89% 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 batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking, which may require an additional few minutes in the oven to ensure it's cooked through.
What can I use instead of cornmeal?
If you don't have cornmeal, you can use fine polenta or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, but it will still yield a delicious result.
Is this corn pone suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based, as it contains no meat or animal by-products. It fits well within vegetarian recipes, making it a great choice for gatherings that accommodate different dietary preferences.
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).