fried cornmeal mush recipe

The Best fried cornmeal mush recipe

I’ve been making fried cornmeal mush for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple recipe that’s easy to make and always a hit with the family.

The dish originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother. It’s a traditional Southern recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and I’m happy to share it with you today.

The first time I made it was when my kids were young, and they loved helping me mix the ingredients together. As they grew older, they began to appreciate the flavors and textures of this comforting dish.

Now, whenever we have family gatherings or special occasions, I make sure to include fried cornmeal mush on the menu. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and everyone looks forward to it.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, add some protein like bacon or sausage for a heartier meal, or even use it as a topping for breakfast foods like scrambled eggs or pancakes. My kids love helping me cook up big batches of cornmeal mush for our weekly family dinner nights.

We often serve it with some fried chicken or burgers for a filling meal that everyone enjoys.

Fried Cornmeal Mush Recipe

4.8 from 1496 votes

Fried Cornmeal Mush is a crispy and comforting dish made from cooked cornmeal batter. This recipe serves 4 people and takes around 45 minutes to prepare and cook.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cornmeal Mush

1 cup cornmeal
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Frying

Vegetable oil for frying
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a saucepan, bring water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2Add cornmeal and salt, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3This should take approximately 5 minutes.
4Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5The mixture should be thick and sticky.
6Transfer the cooked cornmeal mush to a greased mixing bowl.
7Allow it to cool slightly, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
8This step is crucial for the mush to hold its shape during frying.
9You can also prepare it a day ahead for convenience.
10Once the cornmeal mush is firm, cut it into 8 equal pieces.
11Season the pieces with paprika and black pepper.
12In a frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
13Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
14Add the cornmeal pieces carefully to the hot oil.
15Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
16Use a spatula to flip them gently.
17Remove the fried cornmeal mush from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
18Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey or maple syrup.
19Enjoy your crispy and comforting fried cornmeal mush.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan with lid
Mixing bowl
Frying pan
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure the cornmeal mush is firm before frying to maintain its shape. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. For a spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture.

Fried cornmeal mush is one of my go-to recipes when we have family gatherings or special occasions. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, add some protein like bacon or sausage for a heartier meal, or even use it as a topping for breakfast foods like scrambled eggs or pancakes.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it freezes – simply scoop out portions into individual containers and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave on high for 20-30 seconds.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Cornmeal Mush

Q: What is fried cornmeal mush?

Fried cornmeal mush is a traditional Southern dish made from cornmeal, water, and sometimes milk or eggs. It’s similar to polenta but has a lighter texture and more delicate flavor.

Q: Is fried cornmeal mush healthy?

While it’s not the healthiest option due to its high carb content, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat cornmeal and reducing the amount of added sugar.

Q: Can I use different types of milk in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Q: How do I store leftover fried cornmeal mush?

You can store leftover fried cornmeal mush in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I reheat fried cornmeal mush in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat fried cornmeal mush in the microwave by covering it with a paper towel to prevent drying out. Reheat on high for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

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