Traditional Crackling Bread
Traditional Crackling Bread Recipe from USA | Ingredients: Cracklings, Cornmeal, Wheat flour, Sour Milk
Introduction
Traditional Crackling Bread is a classic Southern dish that combines the rich flavors of cracklings with the hearty texture of cornmeal. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a beloved comfort food for many.
History
Crackling Bread has its roots in Southern cuisine, where cracklings (pieces of fried pork skin) were a common ingredient in many dishes. The addition of cornmeal and sour milk to create a bread-like texture was a way to make use of leftover ingredients and create a filling and delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced cracklings
- 1.5 cups cornmeal
- 0.5 cup wheat flour
- 0.5 tsp baking soda
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1 cup sour milk
How to prepare
- Mix and sift the dry ingredients together.
- Add milk and stir in the cracklings.
- Shape the mixture into oblong cakes and place them in a greased baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 30 minutes.
Variations
- Add chopped herbs or spices to the batter for extra flavor.
- Substitute buttermilk for sour milk for a tangier taste.
- Add cheese or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the milk to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough texture.
- Grease the baking pan well to prevent sticking and ensure a crispy crust on the bread.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Crackling Bread is best served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs well with soups, stews, or as a side dish to a main course.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find cracklings, you can substitute bacon or pancetta.
- You can use buttermilk instead of sour milk.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Traditional Crackling Bread on a wooden cutting board or in a rustic bread basket for a cozy and inviting presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Traditional Crackling Bread pairs well with a hearty chili, a bowl of soup, or a simple salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Traditional Crackling Bread contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Traditional Crackling Bread contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Traditional Crackling Bread contains approximately 8g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Traditional Crackling Bread contains approximately 5g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Traditional Crackling Bread is a good source of iron and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains wheat and dairy.
Summary
Traditional Crackling Bread is a hearty and filling dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a great source of iron and calcium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Summary
Traditional Crackling Bread is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a crispy crust and a tender crumb, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Traditional Crackling Bread. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, with her garden. As a token of her appreciation, she invited me into her warm and cozy kitchen for a cup of tea.
As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping our tea and chatting about the changing of the seasons, Mrs. Jenkins suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. She emerged a moment later with a worn and tattered recipe card in her hand.
"Here, my dear," she said, handing me the card. "This is a recipe for Traditional Crackling Bread that has been in my family for generations. I think you will appreciate it."
I looked down at the recipe card, intrigued by the handwritten instructions and faded ink. Mrs. Jenkins explained that the bread was a staple in her family's kitchen during the colder months, as it provided a hearty and comforting addition to any meal.
Eager to try my hand at making this time-honored recipe, I thanked Mrs. Jenkins profusely and headed home with the card clutched in my hand. That evening, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, eager to see if I could recreate the delicious bread that had been a part of Mrs. Jenkins' family for so long.
The process of making Traditional Crackling Bread was a labor of love. The dough had to be kneaded until it was smooth and elastic, then left to rise in a warm spot until it had doubled in size. The crackling, or pork rind, had to be rendered and chopped finely before being added to the dough, giving the bread its signature flavor and texture.
As the bread baked in the oven, filling my kitchen with the warm and comforting scent of yeast and crackling, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. When I pulled the finished loaf from the oven, golden and crusty on the outside and soft and tender on the inside, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.
Over the years, I have made Traditional Crackling Bread countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Mrs. Jenkins started so many years ago.
I have come to realize that recipes are more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. They are a connection to the past, a link to the generations that came before us. Each time I bake a loaf of Traditional Crackling Bread, I am reminded of the time I spent in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, sipping tea and learning about her family's traditions.
And so, as I pull another batch of crackling bread from the oven, I am filled with gratitude for the recipes that have been passed down to me. They are not just recipes; they are a legacy, a way to honor the memories of those who came before me. And for that, I am truly grateful.
Categories
| American Recipes | Bread Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cornmeal Recipes | Sour Milk Recipes |