Fried Cornmeal Mush With Tomato Gravy
Description
This classic Southern dish transforms simple cornmeal into a comforting, hearty meal. The cornmeal mush is cooked until thick, chilled overnight to set, and then sliced into uniform rounds. These slices are dredged in flour and pan-fried until they develop a satisfyingly crisp, golden exterior while remaining tender inside. Served alongside a robust, savory tomato gravy, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It is an ideal choice for a cozy breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or a unique vegetarian dinner option. The combination of the nutty cornmeal and the bright acidity of the tomato sauce creates a nostalgic, home-style experience that is both rustic and elegant.Ingredients
Directions
-
In a small bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, and cold water. Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain.
-
Bring the hot water to a rolling boil in a large saucepan over high heat.
-
Gradually whisk the cornmeal mixture into the boiling water, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
-
Continue to stir and whisk vigorously until the mixture returns to a boil and begins to thicken.
-
Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and let the mush simmer for 5 minutes.
-
Remove from heat. The mixture should be very thick. Pour it immediately into an oiled 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan.
-
Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, until completely firm.
-
Remove the pan from the refrigerator. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the mush, then invert onto a cutting board.
-
Cut the loaf into 1/2-inch thick slices.
-
Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
-
Dredge 3 or 4 slices in the all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
-
Place the dredged slices in the skillet and fry until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Flip the slices and fry until golden brown on the other side, about 3-4 minutes more.
-
Transfer fried slices to a plate. Add more oil to the skillet as needed and repeat with remaining slices.
-
Serve the fried cornmeal mush warm, accompanied by tomato gravy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 271.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.0g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4887.0mg204%
- Total Carbohydrate 56.2g19%
- Dietary Fiber 5.5g22%
- Sugars 1.8g
- Protein 6.1g13%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
cornmeal, mush, fried, gravy, tomato, southern, comfort, breakfast, vegan, crispy, pan-fried, homestyle, grain, dinner, vegetarian, savory, brunch, rustic, hearty, classic