Are you looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that's both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated? Look no further! This simple fried cornbread recipe elevates the classic cornbread to new heights with a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a tender, fluffy interior. It's the perfect side dish for any meal, a satisfying snack, or even a unique breakfast treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple, yet incredibly delicious, homemade dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil, plus extra for frying
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, ¼ cup vegetable oil, and the beaten egg.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until the batter is moistened. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in tough cornbread.
Step 4: Cook the Cornbread
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a small drop of batter should sizzle immediately), drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Fry the cornbread for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip the cornbread.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the fried cornbread from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Cornbread:
- Don't overmix the batter: This will result in tough cornbread. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Use medium-high heat: This ensures the cornbread cooks evenly and gets crispy on the outside.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy cornbread. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the thickness of your cornbread, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Fried Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Fried Cornbread: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese to the batter.
- Herb Fried Cornbread: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as chives or cilantro, to the batter for a fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on portion size and ingredients used, but a general estimate for one piece of fried cornbread would be around:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 4-5g
This simple fried cornbread recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side, snack, or even a unique breakfast option. Try it today and experience the deliciousness for yourself! Enjoy!