There’s something so comforting about the smell of freshly made cornbread wafting through your kitchen. It’s a recipe that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. This Old-Fashioned Hot Water Cornbread is not only easy to whip up, but it also delivers that nostalgic flavor that warms your heart. Plus, it’s ready in no time, making it a perfect side dish for any meal!

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Hot Water Cornbread

Fast
Easy
Giftable
Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal – The star of the show, giving that delightful texture.
1 teaspoon salt – Just enough to enhance the flavors.
1 cup boiling water – This is what makes the cornbread tender and moist.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted bacon grease – For frying and adding a bit of flavor.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Hot Water Cornbread

Making this cornbread is as simple as it gets! Here’s how you do it:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal and salt.
Gradually pour the boiling water into the cornmeal mixture, stirring until fully combined and a thick batter forms.
Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil or bacon grease over medium heat.
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot skillet, forming small patties.
Fry the cornbread until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes, then flip to cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Remove the cornbread from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Substitutions & Additions

Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:

Swap cornmeal for a mix of cornmeal and flour for a different texture.
Add a pinch of sugar for a hint of sweetness.
Mix in some chopped jalapenos or cheese for a spicy kick!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your cornbread turns out perfect every time:

Make sure your water is boiling hot to achieve the right consistency.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each patty enough space to fry evenly.
If you want to prepare ahead, you can mix the dry ingredients in advance and just add the water when you’re ready to fry.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Hot Water Cornbread

These little gems are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, just pop them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I freeze the cornbread? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
What can I serve with hot water cornbread? It pairs wonderfully with chili, soups, or any hearty main dish.

Now that you have this delightful recipe in your hands, I hope you give it a try! For more delicious recipes, check out Tasty with Lara or Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes for treats you will love!

If you love these simple yet delicious recipes, be sure to follow our Pinterest for more inspiration!