Hot Water Bread
A quick, savory fried cornmeal pancake with a hint of sweetness, perfect for a comforting breakfast or snack that satisfies both sweet and salty cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cornmeal, flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Make a well in the center of the dry mixture.
- Gradually pour in the boiling water while stirring until the batter is just wet and smooth.
- Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat until hot.
- Scoop portions of batter into the pan to form pancakes.
- Cook until bubbles form and the edges set, then flip and brown both sides.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings or condiments.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using half cornmeal and half masa harina. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup. Ensure the boiling water is truly hot to achieve a smooth batter, and don't overmix. You can also add spices like cinnamon for a twist, making it a fun complement to recipes like Erika's Cinnamon Toast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with butter, honey, or your favorite jam for a delicious breakfast treat. They also pair well with savory toppings like avocado, cheese, or even a side of Cardinal Salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside Quick Orange Blueberry Muffins for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot water bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a tiny bit of oil if necessary, until warm and crisp again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Water Bread contains roughly 86 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2412mg per serving (105% 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 hot water bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just add a bit more boiling water to loosen it up before frying. Freshly cooked pancakes will always have the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of white cornmeal?
If you don't have white cornmeal, yellow cornmeal is a suitable substitute and will yield a slightly different color but similar taste. Alternatively, you can use fine polenta or even a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version, adjusting the liquid as necessary.
Can I freeze hot water bread?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked hot water bread. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in a skillet or toaster until heated through.
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).