Fried Cornbread – Don’t LOSE this Recipe

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Cornbread Batter:**
– In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well to combine.
– In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and then add the buttermilk and melted butter (or oil). Stir to combine the wet ingredients.
– Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cornbread.

2. **Heat the Oil:**
– In a large skillet (preferably cast iron for the best crisp), heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when a small spoonful of batter is dropped in, but not so hot that it burns the cornbread.

3. **Fry the Cornbread:**
– Once the oil is heated, drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter into the skillet, gently flattening each one with the back of the spoon to form small patties. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The edges should be a nice golden color, and the middle should be soft but cooked through.
– Remove the fried cornbread from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

4. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the fried cornbread hot, alongside your favorite Southern dishes. It’s fantastic with a drizzle of honey, a dollop of butter, or even as a savory side with your main meal.

### Why This Recipe Is a Keeper

– **Quick and Easy:** This recipe requires minimal ingredients and takes just a few minutes to prepare. You can whip it up quickly and enjoy a homemade, comforting dish in no time.

– **Perfect Texture:** The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, moist interior that perfectly captures the essence of cornbread while providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.

– **Versatile:** Whether served as a savory side dish with fried chicken or as a sweet treat with a drizzle of honey, fried cornbread adapts to any meal. It’s a perfect side for soups, stews, barbecue, and even breakfast.

– **Crowd-Pleaser:** Fried cornbread is always a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.

### A Few Tips for Perfect Fried Cornbread

– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the batter will make your cornbread dense. Stir the ingredients just enough to combine them.
– **Test the Oil Temperature:** To ensure your cornbread gets crispy without being greasy, make sure the oil is hot enough. You can test it by dropping a small spoonful of batter into the oil—if it sizzles right away, the oil is ready.
– **Drain Well:** After frying, place the cornbread on paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps maintain the crispy texture and prevents the cornbread from being greasy.

### The Verdict: A Timeless Southern Classic

**Fried Cornbread** is more than just a recipe; it’s a piece of Southern history that brings people together over delicious food. The crispy, golden edges and soft, flavorful center make this cornbread irresistible. It’s the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal and brings that classic Southern flavor to your kitchen.

So, don’t lose this recipe! Keep it in your collection and make it a regular feature in your meal planning. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just a quick weeknight treat, this fried cornbread will never disappoint.