Mrs. Florence Hooks' Spoon Bread
Mrs. Florence Hooks' Spoon Bread is a comforting, fluffy dish with a slightly crusty top, featuring the gentle sweetness of eggs and the hearty texture of cornmeal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it pairs well with savory sides and is equally delicious warmed over or frozen for later.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the meal with boiling water and add salt.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Add eggs, milk, and melted butter or margarine to the cooled mixture.
- Pour into a buttered 9x9-inch pan.
- Bake at 450°F until browned, about 30 minutes.
- Serve warm. Can be reheated or frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. If you're short on time, you can substitute the boiling water with hot tap water, although it may affect the final texture slightly. Ensure the meal is thoroughly scalded to achieve the best results. If you’re experimenting, try adding cheese or herbs for a savory twist, or even a touch of sugar for a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of the flavors in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spoon bread warm as a delightful side dish with fried chicken or a hearty stew. It pairs beautifully with Super Corn for a comforting meal. For a breakfast twist, enjoy it with maple syrup or fresh fruit. You can also add it to your holiday table alongside dishes like Best Ever Sugar Cookies for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the spoon bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Florence Hooks' Spoon Bread contains roughly 661 calories, with 7g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (69% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1703mg per serving (74% 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 a different type of meal?
Yes, you can substitute cornmeal with a finer texture, but the cooking time may vary slightly. If using a different grain, ensure to adjust the water and cooking times accordingly to achieve the right consistency.
What can I do if my spoon bread is too dry?
If your spoon bread turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough liquid in the mixture. You can add a bit of milk or butter to the warm slices before serving to enhance moisture. Always check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
Is it possible to make spoon bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before pouring it into the pan and baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked spoon bread without the morning rush.
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).