Fried Cornbread – Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes

Southern fried cornbread, often referred to as “hoecakes,” is a beloved Southern dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. These golden, crispy cakes are made from a batter of cornmeal, buttermilk, and a few other pantry staples. Whether served as a side dish, a snack, or a breakfast treat, hoecakes embody the comforting flavors of the South. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating your own batch of Southern cornmeal hoecakes that are sure to transport your taste buds to a porch in the deep South.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 large egg
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, water, and egg until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more buttermilk or water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

1. In a heavy skillet or frying pan, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. You can test the readiness by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.

Step 3: Fry the Hoecakes

1. Using a spoon or ladle, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. The size of each hoecake is up to you, but they’re typically about 3-4 inches in diameter.
2. Fry the hoecakes for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them over. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady sizzle without burning.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

1. Once the hoecakes are beautifully browned, remove them from the hot oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. Serve the Southern fried cornbread hot, garnished with a dollop of butter, honey, or your favorite condiment. They’re fantastic as a side dish for breakfast, brunch, or alongside classic Southern dishes like fried chicken or collard greens.

 

Southern cornmeal hoecakes are a delightful Southern staple that embodies the warmth and comfort of Southern cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal, these crispy, golden hoecakes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and transport you to the heart of the South. Enjoy the simple yet delicious flavors of this Southern classic!