Hot Water Corn Bread
Hot Water Cornbread is a crispy, hearty bread made from simple ingredients, perfect for Southern comfort food lovers and those seeking easy, flavorful side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat.
- Add corn meal and salt to the hot water and mix briskly with a spoon until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Ensure the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape when dropped from a spoon.
- Heat bacon drippings or oil in a skillet until hot.
- Spoon a big tablespoonful of the cornmeal mixture into the hot skillet.
- Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until the bread is brown and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use finely ground cornmeal for a smoother texture. If you don't have bacon drippings, vegetable oil or butter can be used as substitutes. Ensure the water is very hot to help the cornmeal cook properly, and avoid overmixing to maintain a fluffy texture. For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices like paprika or garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
Hot water corn bread pairs beautifully with Franya'S Corn And Potato Soup or can be served alongside stews and chilis. It also makes a great base for toppings like honey butter or jam. Consider serving it with a fresh salad or as a side to savory dishes like Pork Chop With Rice Casserole for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot water corn bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can microwave it briefly, but this may make it less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Water Corn Bread contains roughly 424 calories, with 7g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2727mg per serving (119% 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 corn bread in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cornmeal mixture ahead of time, but it's best to cook it fresh for optimal texture. If you must make it in advance, reheat in a skillet to regain its crispiness.
What can I use instead of bacon drippings?
If you don't have bacon drippings, you can substitute with vegetable oil, olive oil, or melted butter. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but all will work well for frying.
How do I know when the corn bread is done cooking?
The corn bread is done when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. It should hold its shape when flipped and feel firm to the touch. Cooking time may vary based on your skillet and heat level.
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).