In North Carolina, comfort food isn’t just something you eat—it’s a way of life. Among the many beloved dishes of the Tar Heel State, cornbread stands out as a humble but essential part of the Southern dining experience. Whether it’s served alongside a hearty bowl of chili, a savory stew, or a plate of BBQ, cornbread brings warmth to the table and satisfies like nothing else.
The secret to great North Carolina cornbread lies in its simplicity. While some versions may include extra ingredients like cheese or jalapeños, this recipe sticks to the basics, letting the corn flavor shine. With just four ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this iconic Southern bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Recipe: North Carolina’s Classic 4-Ingredient Cornbread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp bacon grease (or butter)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place a cast iron skillet in the oven while it heats.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, buttermilk, and egg until smooth.
- Remove the hot skillet from the oven, and carefully add the bacon grease or butter, swirling it around to coat the pan.
- Pour the batter into the hot skillet, ensuring it spreads evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.