Light and fluffy on the inside with a crispy, crunchy exterior, this easy Hot Water Cornbread recipe is a classic southern treat!
Prep Time 5 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 15 minutesminutes
Servings 5servings
Ingredients
2cupscornmeal(white or yellow, fine or medium grind)
1teaspoonsalt
1 ⅔cupsboiling water(more if needed)
Peanut or vegetable oil, for frying(to a depth of 1/2-inch)
Instructions
Place a 10 or 12-inch skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium high heat. Add oil to an approximate depth of 1/2-inch. Let the oil heat while mixing the cornbread.
In a medium mixing bowl, add the cornmeal and salt. Stir together.
Gradually stir in the boiling water.
Mix well forming a dough with a thick, wet consistency. Add more water if needed to attain the correct consistency.
When the oil is sufficiently heated (about 375 degrees F), form small patties of dough.
Carefully lower the patties into the hot oil.
Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes or until a medium golden brown color.
Turn and cook on the second side until well browned.
Remove from the oil and drain on a rack or a plate lined with paper towels.
Makes about 10 pieces of cornbread. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Cornmeal comes in yellow or white, and either fine, medium, or coarse grinds. I always use white, fine ground cornmeal for any cornbread recipe, but you can use either white or yellow in the fine or medium grind.
I always use peanut oil for frying because it has a higher smoking point than other oils. You'll need enough oil to fill your skillet to about ½-inch deep.
Store leftovers in a closed container in the fridge. It should keep for quite a long time - 5 or 6 days. To reheat, I'd suggest using the oven at 350 degrees and heating for about 10 minutes.