Old Virginia Spoon Bread
Old Virginia Spoon Bread is a comforting, tender cornbread-like dish with a light, fluffy texture and subtle buttery flavor. Perfect as a side for hearty meals or family dinners, it offers a nostalgic taste of Southern cuisine, blending creamy cornmeal with eggs and milk for a delightful experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the cornmeal and salt into 2 cups boiling water in a saucepan.
- Cook for 1 minute; remove from heat.
- Add melted butter and baking powder; mix well.
- Add eggs; mix well.
- Stir in milk gradually.
- Spoon into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 400° for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. You can also experiment with adding herbs like chives or thyme for extra flavor. If you don’t have cornmeal, finely ground polenta can work as a substitute. Make sure to whisk the eggs well to incorporate air, which helps in achieving a light and fluffy spoon bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spoon bread warm as a delightful side dish alongside fried chicken or smoked barbecue. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Tammy Wynette's Sour Cream Pound Cake for a comforting meal. For a vegetarian option, accompany it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spoon bread in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a slightly drier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Virginia Spoon Bread contains roughly 262 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1503mg 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before baking. This will ensure even cooking and a good rise.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with vegetable oil or vegan butter. Coconut oil is also a great alternative that adds a subtle flavor. Just melt it before mixing into the batter.
Can I add cheese to the spoon bread?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, can enhance the flavor and create a deliciously cheesy spoon bread. Stir in about 1 cup of cheese after mixing in the milk for a rich and savory twist.
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).