Chef John's Hot Water Cornbread

This deep-fried hot water cornbread might be the most Southern of all Southern cornbreads. The taste is very familiar, but that crusty, crispy exterior makes it new and exciting.

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

10 mins

Chill Time:

1 hr

Total Time:

1 hr 20 mins

Servings:

Jump to Nutrition Facts

Ingredients

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Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings

2 cups cornmeal
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 cups vegetable oil for frying, or as needed

Directions

Combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder in a bowl and whisk thoroughly until well mixed.
Pour in water, and carefully mix with a spoon until combined. Add butter and mix with a spoon until combined.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to transfer 8 equal portions onto the prepared pan. Cover with plastic and press with your hands to form smooth patties about 1-inch thick.
For best results, chill dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before frying. If needed, dough can be fried as soon as it is made.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), or heat oil, 1/2-inch deep in a heavy skillet to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Deep fry cornbread in the preheated deep fryer (or pan-fry in the preheated skillet) until nicely browned, about 3 minutes per side. Let cool about 10 minutes before serving.

John Mitzewich

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

873	Calories
84g	Fat
30g	Carbs
3g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 8
Calories 873
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 84g	108%
Saturated Fat 7g	36%
Cholesterol 4mg	1%
Sodium 510mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate 30g	11%
Dietary Fiber 2g	8%
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 3g	6%
Vitamin C 0mg	0%
Calcium 106mg	8%
Iron 1mg	8%
Potassium 93mg	2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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