Pepper Cornbread
Pepper Cornbread offers a spicy twist on traditional cornbread with the heat of small peppers and rich bacon drippings. Its bold flavors make it a perfect accompaniment for hearty meals or casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful, slightly spicy baked bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix salt, cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Add milk and bacon drippings; melted shortening can be used if no drippings are available.
- Add peppers, cut very small.
- Pour into a warm baking pan and bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes or until done.
- Alternatively, spoon the mixture into a skillet and cook on the stove in patties.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, consider using jalapeños or habaneros, depending on your heat preference. If you don't have bacon drippings, vegetable oil or melted butter can work as substitutes. Ensure the cornmeal is finely ground for a better texture. You can also add shredded cheese or herbs for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pepper cornbread warm as a side dish to grilled meats or with a hearty chili. It pairs beautifully with Vicki'S Spinach Salad for a complete meal. For breakfast, enjoy it with a drizzle of honey or alongside scrambled eggs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Cornbread contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% 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 different types of cornmeal?
Yes, you can use yellow cornmeal if you prefer, but it may slightly alter the flavor and color of the cornbread. Just ensure it's finely ground for the best texture.
What can I serve with pepper cornbread?
Pepper cornbread goes well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Soup or as a side to Hilda'S Ham for a delicious meal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can replace milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or oat milk. This keeps the recipe dairy-free while still achieving a moist 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).