Cracklin' Cornbread

Ingredients

• 2 cups yellow cornmeal
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pork cracklings (crushed)
• 1.5 cups buttermilk
• 1 piece large egg
• 3 tablespoons bacon drippings
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet inside the oven and preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

3. 3

   In a separate smaller bowl, beat the egg and whisk in the buttermilk until well combined.

4. 4

   Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the bacon drippings, swirling to coat the bottom and sides.

5. 5

   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just moistened; do not overmix.

6. 6

   Fold in the crushed pork cracklings and immediately pour the excess hot bacon grease from the skillet into the batter, stirring quickly.

7. 7

   Pour the batter into the hot, greased skillet; you should hear a sizzle which ensures a crispy crust.

8. 8

   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.