Southern Style Cast Iron Cornbread
Experience the rich, comforting flavor of Southern Style Cast Iron Cornbread. This hearty, golden cornbread is a staple in Southern cooking, perfect for pairing with chili, barbecued meats, or enjoyed simply with butter. Made with stoneground cornmeal and baked to perfection in a pre-heated cast iron skillet, this recipe offers a delightful crispy crust that enhances the texture of the moist interior. Feel free to customize it with add-ins like sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, or crispy bacon for added flavor, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day!
4
Servings
85
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
cornmeal
1 cup (stoneground preferred)
buttermilk
1 cup (at room temperature)
egg
1 (beaten)
shortening
1 tablespoon (melted)
baking soda
1/4 teaspoon (sifted)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a cast iron skillet inside to heat.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the stoneground cornmeal, baking soda, and salt. Whisk well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3
In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and beaten egg. Add the melted shortening and stir until combined.
4
Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Grease it generously with oil or butter to ensure a crispy crust.
6
Immediately pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet, spreading it evenly.
7
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8
For added flavor, consider mixing in corn, jalapeños, or cooked bacon into the batter before baking.
9
Let the cornbread cool slightly in the skillet before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Nutrition Information
3.5g
Fat
10.8g
Carbs
1.8g
Protein
0.8g
Fiber
142.3mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Style Cast Iron Cornbread?
It is a hearty, golden Southern staple made with stoneground cornmeal and baked in a pre-heated cast iron skillet to achieve a crispy crust and moist interior.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C).
Why is a cast iron skillet used for this recipe?
A cast iron skillet is used to create a delightful crispy crust that enhances the overall texture of the cornbread.
Do I need to preheat the skillet?
Yes, you should place the cast iron skillet inside the oven while it preheats so it is hot when the batter is added.
What type of cornmeal is recommended?
Stoneground cornmeal is preferred for the best flavor and texture.
What are the main ingredients for this cornbread?
The ingredients include 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon melted shortening, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.
How long does it take to bake the cornbread?
It takes approximately 20 minutes to bake, or until the top is golden brown.
How do I know when the cornbread is finished cooking?
The cornbread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I add spicy ingredients to this recipe?
Yes, you can mix in spicy jalapeños into the batter before baking for added flavor.
Is it possible to add meat to the cornbread?
Yes, adding cooked crispy bacon to the batter is a recommended variation.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 85 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 3.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
There are 10.8 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this cornbread have?
Each serving provides 1.8 grams of protein.
What is the sodium content of this recipe?
The sodium content is 142.3mg per serving.
Should the buttermilk be at a specific temperature?
Yes, it is recommended to use buttermilk at room temperature.
Should I overmix the batter?
No, you should stir until just combined. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly okay.
How do I ensure the cornbread doesn't stick to the skillet?
Generously grease the hot skillet with oil or butter before pouring in the batter.
Can I add sweet corn to the batter?
Yes, sweet corn is a great optional add-in for extra texture and flavor.
What should I serve with Southern Style Cornbread?
It pairs perfectly with chili, barbecued meats, or can be enjoyed simply with butter.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, the base recipe is vegetarian as long as you do not add bacon.
How much fiber is in the cornbread?
There is approximately 0.8 grams of fiber per serving.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
No, this specific Southern-style recipe does not list sugar as an ingredient.
What type of leavening agent is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of sifted baking soda.
Is the egg beaten before adding?
Yes, the egg should be beaten before being mixed with the buttermilk.
What category of food is this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Breads.
How should the shortening be prepared?
The shortening should be melted before being added to the liquid mixture.
Should the cornbread be served hot?
Yes, it is best enjoyed warm after cooling slightly in the skillet.
Can I customize the flavor?
Absolutely. You can customize it with corn, jalapeños, or bacon to make it more versatile.