Welcome to a taste of the South with our delightful Country Ham Spoon Bread! This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of country ham with a creamy, cornmeal base that will have your taste buds singing. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this spoon bread is not just a side dish; it's a culinary experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you can create this irresistible treat that’s sure to impress. Are you ready to dive into a recipe that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup diced country ham
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine water and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the cornmeal mixture from heat and stir in the milk and butter until well incorporated. Let the mixture cool slightly for 5-10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Gradually temper the eggs by slowly adding a small amount of the warm cornmeal mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Fold the tempered eggs back into the cornmeal mixture, then add the diced country ham and baking powder. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The consistency should be loose and slightly runny, which is characteristic of spoon bread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. The spoon bread will continue to set during this time.
- Serve warm directly from the baking dish, using a large spoon to scoop out portions. The texture should be soft, creamy, and pudding-like.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ham: For the best flavor, use high-quality country ham. The saltiness and smokiness will elevate your spoon bread to new heights.
- Whisk Constantly: When adding the cornmeal to the boiling water, whisk continuously to prevent lumps. A smooth mixture is key to achieving that perfect spoon bread texture.
- Tempering the Eggs: Be careful when tempering the eggs; adding the warm cornmeal mixture slowly will help avoid scrambling and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Check for Doneness: The spoon bread should be golden brown on top and slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it appears a bit soft when you first take it out of the oven.
- Serve Warm: Spoon bread is best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven. Use a large spoon to serve it directly from the baking dish for a rustic presentation.
- Pair It Right: This dish pairs wonderfully with greens, fried chicken, or even a hearty soup, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
