Nutt House Hot Water Cornbread
Description
This classic American recipe produces tender, flavorful cornbread cakes with a delightful crispy exterior. By using boiling water to gelatinize the cornmeal, you achieve a unique texture that is soft and moist inside while remaining sturdy enough for frying. The combination of white and yellow cornmeal offers a nuanced flavor profile, enhanced by a hint of salt and leavening. These small cornbread cakes are perfect as a side dish for chili, stew, or barbecue, adding a rustic touch to any meal. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe brings a nostalgic, home-style comfort to your table. Serve them warm for the best experience, enjoying the contrast between the crunchy crust and the fluffy interior.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the white cornmeal, yellow cornmeal, and salt.
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Melt 2 tablespoons of shortening in the 2 cups of boiling water.
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Pour the hot water and shortening mixture into the cornmeal mixture and stir vigorously until a firm dough forms.
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Allow the dough to cool for 20 minutes.
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Dissolve the baking powder in 2 tablespoons of water.
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Work the dissolved baking powder into the cooled dough until fully incorporated.
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Pinch off portions of the dough and pat them into small, round cakes.
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Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to a temperature where it bubbles freely around the cornbread.
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Fry the cornbread cakes until golden brown and crispy on the outside, ensuring the inside remains soft.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 501.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.3g19%
- Saturated Fat 3.6g18%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4981.7mg208%
- Total Carbohydrate 90.2g31%
- Dietary Fiber 8.8g36%
- Sugars 2.9g
- Protein 9.7g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: If not frying immediately, refrigerate the formed cornbread cakes on waxed paper until ready to cook.
Texture Tip: The goal is a crisp crust on the outside with a soft, tender interior. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cornbread to achieve the proper crust.
Source Attribution: Recipe originally from the Nutt House in Granbury, TX, received in the April '94 swap from Sue Bell.