Step 1

Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in oven, and preheat oven to 425°.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs.

Step 3

When skillet and oven are preheated, add butter and oil to skillet. Return to oven for 5 minutes. Remove and swirl skillet to coat with oil.

Step 4

Make a well in center of flour mixture. Pour buttermilk mixture into flour mixture; whisk together just until combined. Immediately pour into hot skillet. (Batter should sizzle.)

Step 5

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool in skillet for 5 minutes. Remove and let cool on a wire rack.