Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk until smooth.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mix, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay!
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Fry Cornbread: Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Drain and Serve: Remove the fried cornbread from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with butter, syrup, or enjoy alongside your favorite meals!
What to Serve Crispy Fried Cornbread With
Crispy Fried Cornbread is delicious in its own right but becomes even better when paired with a variety of sides! Consider serving it alongside savory dishes like chili or a hearty vegetable soup. It also complements fried chicken or grilled meats beautifully. Want to spice things up? A side salad with a zesty dressing can bring freshness to your meal!
Top Tips for Perfecting Crispy Fried Cornbread
Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—the cornbread will absorb too much oil if it's not. You can test it by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle!
Batter Consistency: Aim for a consistency that holds together but isn’t too thick. If it's too runny, your cornbread won't hold its shape while frying.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative—throw in some chopped jalapeños, cheese, or spices to give your cornbread an extra kick!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store any leftover Crispy Fried Cornbread, allow it to cool completely first. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. To reheat, place the cornbread in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For the best results, avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
Now that you have all the tools and tips to make the perfect Crispy Fried Cornbread, it’s time to get cooking! Embrace the deliciousness of Southern cooking, and enjoy every bite of this soul-warming dish. Happy cooking!