Step 1

Place 1 tablespoon bacon drippings in a 6 1/2-inch Lodge cast iron skillet; place skillet in the oven while it preheats to 425°.

Step 2

Whisk together the cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and remaining 1 tablespoon bacon drippings in a medium bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the buttermilk mixture and stir just until combined. (The mixture should pour like pancake batter; if not, add a little more buttermilk.)

Step 3

Pour the batter into the hot skillet. Bake until the crust is dark golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve hot, no chaser.