Mountain Spoon Bread
Mountain Spoon Bread is a comforting, slightly sweet cornbread with a moist, tender crumb, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a hearty flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 cup hot water with 1 cup cornmeal and stir well.
- Add 2 tablespoons shortening, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar to the mixture.
- Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in 1 cup buttermilk and add to the mixture.
- Add 2 well-beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot, spooned directly from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you're out of buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure the batter is well-combined but do not overmix, as this can lead to a tough texture. Serve this delightful dish warm, and it pairs wonderfully with savory dishes, making it a great addition to meals like Mississippi Cornbread Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mountain Spoon Bread hot, spooned directly from the pan for a rustic presentation. It makes a great side dish for hearty meals, especially barbecue or stew. For a delightful breakfast, top it with honey or maple syrup, or pair it with Aunt Ruth'S Bread Pudding for a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mountain Spoon Bread contains roughly 207 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 918mg per serving (40% 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 use gluten-free cornmeal for this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free cornmeal as a substitute. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, especially the baking soda and any additional seasonings you might add. This will allow you to enjoy a gluten-free version of this delicious dish.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the spoon bread?
You can enhance the flavor by adding shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or herbs such as chives or thyme to the batter before baking. These additions will give the spoon bread a unique twist and complement savory dishes beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow the batter to come to room temperature before pouring it into the baking pan and baking as directed. This makes it convenient for busy days!
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).