Real Cornbread

Step 1

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Place oil in a 9-inch cast-iron skillet or similar-size glass baking dish and transfer to the preheating oven.

Step 2

Mix cornmeal, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Add egg and milk (or

Step 3

buttermilk); stir until just combined. Remove the pan from the oven and swirl the oil to coat the bottom and a little way up the sides. Very carefully pour the excess hot oil into the cornmeal mixture; stir until just combined. Pour the batter into the hot pan.

Step 4

Bake until the bread is firm in the middle and lightly golden, about 20 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.