How to Make Southern Cornbread Recipe with Beef Tallow
This southern cornbread recipe is a true classic, featuring the rich flavor of beef tallow cornbread for a crispy crust and tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this classic cornbread recipe is a must-try for fans of authentic Southern cooking.
Ingredients
- 5 tbsp lard, melted in the skillet you will cook bread in
- 2 cups medium grind cornmeal (I prefer Bobs Red Mill)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk buttermilk
- 1 large egg2 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 500°F for the perfect crust.Mix Dry Ingredients:In the bowl of a stand mixer with a whisk attachment (or a large mixing bowl with a whisk), combine the cornmeal, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar. Mix well until evenly combined.Prepare Wet Ingredients:In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Once combined, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly for at least 2 minutes to ensure a smooth batter.Incorporate the Melted Lard (or Beef Tallow):Melt the lard (or beef tallow) in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of the melted lard to the batter and mix for an additional 30 seconds. Leave the remaining melted lard in the skillet.
- Cook the Cornbread Batter on the Stove:Pour the prepared cornmeal batter into the hot skillet with the melted lard. Place the skillet over medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until you notice the edges beginning to turn golden.Bake in the Oven:Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for exactly 13 minutes. This ensures the classic cornbread recipe texture with a golden crust and soft interior.Cool Before Serving:Once baked, let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 20 minutes. After cooling, carefully invert the cornbread onto a serving dish.Serve and Enjoy:Serve your southern cornbread warm with butter. For a delightful twist, mix maple syrup into the butter—it pairs beautifully with the savory flavor of the cornbread!
