How to Make Crackling Cornbread - A Step-by-Step Guide

Crackling cornbread is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This savory and slightly sweet bread is made with cornmeal and cracklings, which are crispy pieces of pork fat. The result is a deliciously crunchy and hearty bread that is perfect for serving alongside a big bowl of chili or a plate of barbecue.

The history of crackling cornbread can be traced back to the early settlers in the Southern United States. They would use every part of the pig, including th...

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon shortening
  • 1 cup pork cracklings (fried pork skins)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Servings: 6

  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Stir together cornmeal, salt, and baking soda in a bowl; set aside. Place shortening into a 9-inch cast iron skillet; place in the preheated oven until the skillet is hot and shortening has melted.
  • Bring some water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add pork cracklings and boil until tender, 5 to 8 minutes. Drain, and reserve.
  • Meanwhile, beat egg in a bowl along with jalapeño pepper and buttermilk; stir in cracklings. Stir in cornmeal mixture until moistened; pour batter into the preheated skillet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until top of cornbread is brown, and feels firm to the touch, 30 to 40 minutes. Turn out onto a serving plate and cut into wedges; serve immediately.
  • Nutrition

    254 cal.

    • Total Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Cholesterol: 53mg
    • Sodium: 1289mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 20g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 14g
    • Vitamin C: 1mg
    • Calcium: 53mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 113mg