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Cornbread

During Polk's presidency, which was marked by significant territorial expansion, cornbread likely provided a taste of home amidst the pressures of leading the nation.
The recipe for traditional Southern cornbread, with its straightforward ingredients and rich history, reflects Polk's no-nonsense approach to life and leadership.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes

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IngredientsMethodVideoNotes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup of cornmeal
  • 1 cup of buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup of unsalted butter melted
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 large egg

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat as the oven warms up.
  2. Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Then, add the melted butter and mix until smooth.
  4. Bake. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and grease it with a bit of additional butter. Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Serve. Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.

Video

Notes

Buttermilk substitution: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.
Sugar: The sugar is optional in this recipe. Some traditionalists prefer their cornbread without it, but it adds a slight sweetness that balances the flavors nicely.
Skillet: Using a cast-iron skillet is key to achieving the perfect crust on your cornbread, but a regular baking dish can work in a pinch.