Southern Spoon Bread(From Boone Tavern, Berea, Kentucky)
Southern spoon bread is a fluffy, savory cornmeal casserole with a creamy texture, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the cornmeal into rapidly boiling milk and cook until very thick, stirring constantly.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Add well-beaten eggs, salt, baking powder, and melted butter to the cooled mixture.
- Beat the mixture in a mixer for 15 minutes.
- Pour into a well-greased casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve from the casserole with a spoon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk instead of low-fat. If cornmeal is unavailable, you can substitute with masa harina, though this will slightly change the flavor. Stir constantly when adding cornmeal to boiling milk to prevent lumps. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. To add a twist, consider folding in some grated cheese or herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southern Spoon Bread warm from the casserole dish with a generous scoop using a spoon. It pairs beautifully with fried chicken, collard greens, or your favorite barbecue meats. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a sweet dish like Cheddar Apple Pie for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place spoon bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Spoon Bread(From Boone Tavern, Berea, Kentucky) contains roughly 196 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1241mg per serving (54% 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 Southern Spoon Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before pouring it into your casserole dish and baking.
What can I do if my spoon bread doesn't rise properly?
If the spoon bread doesn't rise, it may be due to old baking powder or not beating the mixture long enough. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and follow the mixing instructions closely to incorporate enough air.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some shredded cheese or sautéed vegetables for added flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much, as it may affect the consistency and baking time.
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).