There’s something utterly comforting about the aroma of old-fashioned corn pone sizzling away in the kitchen. This Southern classic brings back memories of family gatherings, where crispy golden patties were the star of the table. One bite of these simple cornmeal pancakes reveals not just a delightful crunch, but also a rich history reflecting the heart of home cooking.
Whether you’re seeking a breakfast treat that can easily transition to a side dish for a savory meal, or a dish that can be dressed up to be sweet or savory, corn pone delivers on all fronts. Plus, with gluten-free options available, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge in a comforting yet versatile comfort food. Join me as I guide you through making this easy, delectable dish that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
Why is Corn Pone a Must-Try?
Endearing Tradition: Corn pone is steeped in Southern history, making it not just a dish but a part of cherished culinary traditions.
Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delightful cornmeal pancakes in no time!
Versatile Delight: Whether paired with honey for breakfast or served alongside savory greens for dinner, corn pone adapts beautifully to fit any meal.
Gluten-Free Option: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, it allows everyone at the table to enjoy a warm, comforting dish.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This comforting snack is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.
Corn Pone Ingredients
For the Dough
- Medium or Fine Stone-Ground Cornmeal – This is the backbone of your corn pone, giving it structure and a delightful texture. Substitutions: White or yellow cornmeal can also work but may alter flavor slightly.
- Kosher Salt – A must-have for enhancing flavor, ensuring the corn pone isn’t bland. Substitution: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity.
- Hot Water – Critical for hydrating the cornmeal, helping form a smooth and pliable dough. Note: Always use boiling water for the best texture.
For Frying
- Bacon Grease or Vegetable Oil – This cooking fat not only adds flavor but helps achieve that coveted crispy texture. Substitutions: Any neutral oil or lard can be used for frying.
How to Make Corn Pone
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Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal with 1 1/4 teaspoons of kosher salt. This mixture forms the foundation of your corn pone, ensuring it’s flavorful and delicious.
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Add Water: Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of hot water while stirring the mixture. Keep mixing until a soft, thick dough forms that holds an indentation when pressed, which should take just a few moments.
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Cover and Rest: Use a towel to cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
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Shape the Patties: Divide the dough into four equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Shape each into a patty that’s approximately 4 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick. Keep them uniform for even cooking!
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Heat the Skillet: In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of bacon grease or vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers. A properly heated skillet is key for achieving that golden-brown crust.
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Fry Until Golden: Carefully add the patties to the skillet, frying until the bottom is golden brown, about 4 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until browned, about 2-3 minutes more.
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Drain Excess Grease: Once cooked, transfer the corn pones to a plate lined with paper towels. Allow them to cool slightly while the towels absorb any excess grease.
Optional: Drizzle with honey for a sweet touch or serve with butter for a savory option.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Old-Fashioned Corn Pones are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness with minimal fuss during busy weeknights! You can prepare the cornmeal dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the cornmeal and salt, then add hot water and cover the bowl with plastic wrap, refrigerating until you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, be sure to let the dough warm to room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying, as this helps achieve that perfect texture. When you’re ready to serve, just shape the dough into patties and fry them in hot oil until golden brown. With these simple steps, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready with ease!
Expert Tips for Corn Pone
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Hot Oil Importance: Make sure your oil is hot before adding the patties to prevent sticking and achieve that perfect crispy outer layer.
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Resting the Dough: Allowing your dough to rest for 10 minutes lets the flavors blend beautifully, enhancing your corn pone’s overall taste and texture.
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Adjusting Thickness: Ensure your patties are evenly shaped and about 1/4 inch thick; this guarantees proper cooking and a delightful crispy texture without burning.
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Sweet or Savory Twist: Experiment with flavors! Drizzle honey for a sweet version or serve with butter and greens for a savory delight.
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Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet to maintain crispiness for your delicious corn pone.
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Corn Pone?
There’s nothing quite like the comforting goodness of warm corn pone, offering a delightful foundation for a well-rounded meal.
- Braised Collard Greens: The bitterness of collard greens beautifully complements the sweetness of corn pone, creating a perfect fusion of flavors.
- Savory Stews: Pair corn pone with a hearty vegetable or meat stew, where its crispy texture acts as an ideal vessel for savory goodness.
- Honey and Butter: A simple drizzle of honey or a pat of salted butter atop the warm corn pone transforms it into an irresistible treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Fried Chicken: The crunchy exterior of golden fried chicken pairs marvelously with the fluffy interior of corn pone, making for a Southern classic plate that delights every bite.
- Tomato Salad: A refreshing tomato salad adds a bright and tangy contrast, balancing the warm, hearty nature of corn pone beautifully.
- Sweet Tea: Don’t forget a tall glass of sweet tea to wash it all down—this quintessential Southern beverage rounds out the meal with a sweet, refreshing sip.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, grilled vegetables not only add color but also create a wonderful textural contrast, enhancing the meal’s overall experience.
- Pecan Pie: For dessert, serve a slice of rich pecan pie; its sweet, nutty flavor provides a perfect ending to a satisfying meal featuring corn pone.
Storage Tips for Corn Pone
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Room Temperature: Corn pone can be left out for up to 2 hours at room temperature, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps to keep the corn pone moist without drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze completely cooled corn pone in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, sealing tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Reheat corn pone in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore its delicious crispiness, ensuring it remains just as delightful as when freshly made.
Corn Pone Variations
Customize your corn pone to suit your taste and dietary needs with these fun twists!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the dough for a vibrant flavor boost that enhances the savory aspect. This twist brings freshness to every bite!
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the dough for a rich, gooey texture. The melted cheese will create irresistible flavor pockets in your corn pone.
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Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery kick. This variation gives a surprising heat that elevates the classic dish.
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Sweet & Savory: Swirl in some honey or maple syrup for a delightful balance of sweetness, perfectly complemented by a hint of salt. This combination makes an exciting breakfast treat.
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Vegetable Medley: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also make the dish a bit heartier.
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Gluten-Free Version: Swap medium cornmeal for a certified gluten-free cornmeal to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy this comforting dish without worries!
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Alternative Fats: Replace bacon grease with olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile, perfect for those seeking a healthier option. Each fat brings its unique essence into the dish.
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Breakfast-Style: Add a little vanilla extract and sugar to the dough for a sweet breakfast version, perfect for drizzling with syrup or pairing with fresh fruit. This variation transforms your corn pone into a delightful morning feast!
Corn Pone Recipe FAQs
What type of cornmeal should I use for corn pone?
I recommend using medium or fine stone-ground cornmeal for the best flavor and texture. While white or yellow cornmeal can also be used, they may vary slightly in taste. For authentic Southern corn pone, stick with traditional stone-ground cornmeal whenever possible!
How long can I store leftover corn pone?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their delightful taste and texture, it’s best to reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. This will help restore their crispy exterior.
Can I freeze corn pone?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the corn pone to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, sealing tightly. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet for best results!
What should I do if my corn pone dough is too dry?
If your dough seems too dry and crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of hot water at a time until it reaches the right consistency. The dough should be soft and hold an indentation when pressed. It’s essential to gradually add water, as adding too much at once can make the dough too wet.
Are there any dietary considerations for corn pone?
Yes! Corn pone can easily be made gluten-free since cornmeal is naturally gluten-free. However, always check your cornmeal package for any cross-contamination warnings. If you’re concerned about dietary restrictions or allergies, feel free to substitute bacon grease with vegetable oil or lard if needed.
What can I serve with corn pone?
Corn pone is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of honey for a breakfast treat or can be served alongside savory dishes like braised greens or hearty stews. The more, the merrier, as it can also complement barbecued meats or soups beautifully!
Irresistible Corn Pone: Your New Favorite Southern Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal with 1 1/4 teaspoons of kosher salt.
- Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of hot water while stirring the mixture until a soft, thick dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Divide the dough into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 4 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick.
- In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of bacon grease or vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Fry the patties until the bottom is golden brown, about 4 minutes, then flip and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes more.
- Transfer the cooked corn pones to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
- Optional: Drizzle with honey or serve with butter for added flavor.