Old Fashioned Spoon Bread
Old Fashioned Spoon Bread offers a comforting, fluffy texture with a subtle sweetness and buttery flavor, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk and slowly add the sifted cornmeal, sugar, and salt, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture puffs up, then set off the stove.
- Add the heaping tablespoon of butter and allow to cool for 3 minutes.
- Stir in the well-beaten egg yolks.
- Fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using buttermilk instead of sweet milk. If you want to reduce the sugar, you can cut it down by half without sacrificing flavor. Make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the best rise. This dish is often served as a side, and pairing it with savory dishes like fried chicken enhances its sweetness beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spoon bread warm, either as a side to fried chicken or with a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist. It pairs exceptionally well with dishes like stew or chili. For a special touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream or serve alongside Angela'S Cheesecake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This will help retain its fluffy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the spoon bread rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Spoon Bread contains roughly 384 calories, with 1g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1506mg per serving (65% 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 spoon bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to fold in the egg whites right before baking for the best texture. This makes it convenient for gatherings or family meals.
Can I substitute the cornmeal with another grain?
Although cornmeal is traditional, you can experiment with finely ground polenta or even a gluten-free cornmeal blend. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it can still yield a delicious result.
What can I do if my spoon bread doesn't rise?
If your spoon bread doesn't rise as expected, it may be due to under-beaten egg whites or not folding them in gently enough. Ensure that the egg whites are at stiff peaks, and fold them in carefully to maintain airiness. This will help achieve the desired fluffy texture.
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).