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Hot Water Cornbread

How to Make Southern Hot Water Cornbread (Easy Recipe)


  • Author: Sarah Recipes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 patties 1x

Description

Crispy on the outside, steamy and tender on the inside, this Southern Hot Water Cornbread is a classic fried bread that celebrates simplicity, tradition, and unforgettable flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups yellow cornmeal (stone-ground preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 23 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together cornmeal, salt, sugar (if using), and optional flour or baking powder.
  2. Carefully pour boiling water over the dry ingredients, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and no dry spots remain.
  3. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to fully hydrate and cool slightly.
  4. With damp hands, shape about 3 tablespoons of the mixture into ½-inch thick patties.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot and fresh for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Use boiling water to activate the cornmeal’s starches for structure. Stone-ground cornmeal gives the best texture, and a hot skillet ensures a crispy crust.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Fried
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 patty
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: hot water cornbread, fried cornbread, southern side, easy cornbread recipe