posted by Mai 01-15-103 5:36 AM
Hot-Water Cornbread
Southern Living
For variations of this recipe (Country Ham Hot-Water Cornbread:, Bacon-Cheddar Hot-Water Cornbread:, Southwest Hot-Water Cornbread:, Baked Hot-Water Cornbread, see below.
2 cups white cornmeal
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup half-and-half
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 to 2 cups boiling water
Vegetable oil
Softened butter
Combine first 4 ingredients in a bowl; stir in half-and-half and 1 tablespoon oil. Gradually add boiling water, stirring until batter is the consistency of grits.
Pour oil to a depth of 1/2 inch into a large heavy skillet; place over medium-high heat. Scoop batter into a 1/4-cup measure; drop into hot oil, and fry, in batches, 3 minutes on each side or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Serve with softened butter.
Note: The amount of boiling water needed varies depending on the type of cornmeal used. Stone-ground (coursely ground) cornmeal requires more liquid.
Country Ham Hot-Water Cornbread: After adding boiling water, stir in 1 to 2 cups finely chopped cooked country ham.
Bacon-Cheddar Hot-Water Cornbread: After adding boiling water, stir in 8 slices cooked and crumbled bacon, 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, and 4 minced green onions.
Southwest Hot-Water Cornbread: After adding boiling water, stir in 1 jalapeņo pepper, seeded and minced; 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend; 1 cup frozen whole kernel corn, thawed; and 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro.
B
aked Hot-Water Cornbread: Omit skillet procedure. Pour 1/3 cup vegetable oil into a 15- x 10-inch jellyroll pan, spreading to edges. Drop batter as directed onto pan. Bake at 475° for 12 to 15 minutes. Turn and bake 5 more minutes or until golden brown.