Maryland Spoon Bread
Maryland Spoon Bread is a comforting, moist cornmeal dish with a light, custardy texture, perfect for family dinners or special occasions embracing classic Southern flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cornmeal, bacon drippings, sugar, and salt into a baking dish.
- Pour the boiling water over them gradually and beat well.
- When the mixture is cool, add the beaten egg, sour milk or buttermilk, soda, and 1 teaspoon cold water.
- Beat the whole mixture well.
- Bake in a deep dish at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mixture of sour milk and regular milk. If you don't have bacon drippings, melted butter or olive oil can be used instead. Be sure to let the boiling water cool slightly before mixing to avoid cooking the egg too quickly. This recipe can also be adapted with herbs or cheese for added flavor, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Maryland Spoon Bread is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with hearty meals like Country Pork And Sauerkraut or Ham Spread Or Dip. Serve it warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter on top. It can also be enjoyed as a comforting breakfast option, especially when paired with fresh fruit or a side of scrambled eggs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spoon bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in an oven set to 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help maintain its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryland Spoon Bread contains roughly 104 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 regular milk instead of sour milk or buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for sour milk or buttermilk, but it may alter the flavor slightly. To mimic the tanginess of buttermilk, you can add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
What should I do if my spoon bread doesn't rise?
If your spoon bread doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive baking soda. Ensure your baking soda is fresh and active. Also, make sure to mix the batter well to incorporate air. Lastly, avoid overmixing after adding the wet ingredients, as this can lead to a denser texture.
Can I add cheese or herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar or herbs such as chives or parsley can enhance the flavor of your spoon bread. Just fold them into the batter before baking for a delicious twist. This makes it a great side for various dishes, including those in the Pork recipes category.
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).