Old-Fashioned Pone Bread
Old-Fashioned Pone Bread is a rustic, hearty cornbread with a rich, savory flavor from bacon drippings. Its crusty exterior and tender interior make it perfect for family gatherings or comfort food cravings, especially enjoyed with hearty stews or buttered with honey for a simple, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cornmeal, bacon drippings, and salt until moist.
- Add enough water to make a smooth mixture that holds its shape.
- Form the mixture into pones.
- Grease an iron skillet and heat it.
- Place the pones into the hot skillet.
- Bake at 425°F until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using rendered duck fat instead of bacon drippings. If you don’t have bacon drippings, you can substitute with vegetable oil or butter. Ensure the mixture is just moist enough to hold its shape; too much water will make the pones soggy. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pone bread pairs beautifully with soups and stews, making it a great side for hearty dishes like Mississippi Sin or pork recipes. It can also be enjoyed with honey or butter spread on top for a delicious breakfast treat. Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pone bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place the pones in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Pone Bread contains roughly 83 calories, with 5g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1667mg per serving (72% 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 this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses cornmeal. However, always check the cornmeal packaging to ensure it is processed in a gluten-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.
What can I do if my pones fall apart?
If your pones are crumbling, it might be due to insufficient moisture in the mixture. Try adding a bit more water to achieve the right consistency. Additionally, ensure you’re forming them firmly before cooking.
Is it possible to add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by mixing in cheese, jalapeños, or cooked bacon bits. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture, which could affect the texture of the pones.
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).