Corn Spoon Bread
Corn spoon bread is like a soft murmur from bygone days; it transports you to a simpler period when loved ones had meals together, telling tales and enjoying life’s bounty. Its origins are in the heart of the Midwest, where the golden harvest of maize has been a mainstay for many years, cooked up in creative ways into a wide range of hearty meals. A tribute to the resourcefulness of our ancestors who cooked with what grew under that expansive sky is corn spoon bread, a tender, pudding-like delicacy. Sleek and ready for anybody who chances to wander into the kitchen enticed by its alluring perfume, this slow cooker version brings a contemporary touch to the traditional comfort food. This slow cooker corn spoon bread will transport you to a simpler time, whether you’re in the mood for a taste of home or just want a hearty side dish to round off your dinner.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cornbread or muffin mix | 1 packet (8.5 ounces) |
| Whole kernel corn (drained) | 1 can (15.25 ounces) |
| Cream-style corn | 1 can (14.75 ounces) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Eggs (large, lightly beaten) | 2 |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Optional Additions:
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| Optional Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Diced jalapeño | To taste |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Cooked bacon (crumbled) | To taste |
| Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme) | To taste |
The Cooking Process
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
To prevent food from sticking, coat your slow cooker heavily with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures easy serving and cleanup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the two types of corn with the sour cream, melted butter, eggs, salt, and pepper until there are no lumps left. This blend creates the base for your spoon bread, combining flavors and textures perfectly.
Step 3: Add Cornbread Mix
Gently fold in the cornbread/muffin mix. Stir just enough to blend. Avoid overmixing; this can make the spoon bread too dense.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Transfer the mixture to the preheated slow cooker and use a spoon to level the surface. This ensures even cooking and a nice, smooth top.
Step 5: Cook
Cook, covered, for two to three hours on high or four hours on low, or until the outside is crispy and the inside is just right—not too firm, not too loose, like a Goldilocks heart. Every slow cooker is different, so start checking for doneness at the two-hour mark if cooking on high.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After it’s done, give it a little time to rest (approximately 15 minutes) and then spoon large amounts—like a grandmother’s love—straight from the slow cooker. This rest time helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
