Fried cornbread, also known as Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes, is a beloved dish in Southern cuisine. These delicious, crispy cakes are made from a simple batter of cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and egg, then fried to golden perfection. They are perfect as a side dish for any meal, especially alongside greens, beans, or barbecue. The slight sweetness and rich texture of these hoecakes make them a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup cornmeal
- 1/3 cup self-rising flour
- 1/3 cup low-fat buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying (about 3 tablespoons of coconut oil, but you can use your preferred oil)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup of cornmeal and 1/3 cup of self-rising flour.
- Add 1/3 cup of low-fat buttermilk and 1 large egg to the dry ingredients.
- Stir the mixture until well combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more buttermilk; if it’s too thin, add a bit more cornmeal or flour.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 3 tablespoons of coconut oil (or your preferred frying oil) over medium-high heat.
- You want the oil to be hot but not smoking, ideally around 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Hoecakes:
- Once the oil is hot, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the skillet, spacing them out to allow for spreading. Each hoecake should be about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Fry the hoecakes for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Use a spatula to flip the hoecakes and fry the other side until equally golden and crispy.
- Drain and Serve:
- Once the hoecakes are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite Southern dishes such as collard greens, black-eyed peas, or fried chicken.
Tips for Success:
- Consistency: The batter should be thick but pourable. Adjust the amount of buttermilk or dry ingredients to get the right consistency.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter. If the oil is too cold, the hoecakes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Even Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the hoecakes in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Variations:
- Sweet Hoecakes: Add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to the batter for a slightly sweet version.
- Cheesy Hoecakes: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Hoecakes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapenos to the batter for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Savory: Serve with collard greens, barbecue, or chili for a hearty meal.
- Sweet: Top with butter and honey or maple syrup for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g
FAQ:
Q: Can I make these hoecakes gluten-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your cornmeal is gluten-free.
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? A: Yes, you can use regular milk. However, the buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps with the leavening. If you use regular milk, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the buttermilk effect.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover hoecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze hoecakes? A: Yes, you can freeze hoecakes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.
Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a touch of Southern charm and a lot of delicious flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them with savory dishes or sweet toppings, these hoecakes are sure to become a favorite in your home. Simple to make and satisfying to eat, they are perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and experience the crispy, golden goodness of Fried Cornbread Hoecakes.