Southern Spoon Read
A classic Southern spoon bread with a tender, fluffy texture and a savory cornmeal flavor, perfect for comforting family meals or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix salt and cornmeal; add shortening.
- Pour boiling water over and mix well.
- Break egg into hot mixture and mix well; add milk into which baking powder has been mixed.
- Mix all well and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Bake about 30 minutes at 400°F; serve with lots of butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of sweet milk. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a good substitute. Make sure to mix the cornmeal and salt thoroughly before adding the boiling water to prevent clumping. This dish can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free baking powder and ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Southern Spoon Read warm, topped with a generous pat of butter for added richness. It pairs beautifully with fried chicken or a hearty bowl of chili. For a delightful breakfast, consider serving it alongside Homemade Cream Cheese and fresh fruit. This dish can also be enjoyed as a side at dinner or a comforting snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but be cautious not to overheat to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Spoon Read contains roughly 172 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1097mg per serving (48% 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 a different type of flour instead of cornmeal?
While cornmeal is essential for the texture and flavor of Southern Spoon Read, you can experiment with masa harina for a slightly different taste. However, this may alter the final consistency, so adjustments in water might be necessary.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat. Chopped jalapeños or cheese can also be mixed in for an exciting twist, making it a more dynamic dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by replacing the egg with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Additionally, substitute the sweet milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy, and use coconut oil instead of shortening.
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).