Crackling Corn Bread

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

2. 2

   Put the butter or bacon grease in an 8- or 9-inch cast-iron skillet and set over a medium-low flame.

3. 3

   Heat until the bubbling subsides.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and gradually stir in the buttermilk.

5. 5

   Add the eggs and cracklings or bacon.

6. 6

   Stir in the melted butter or grease and pour the batter into the hot skillet.

7. 7

   Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

8. 8

   Let cool 15 minutes, then invert over a plate or cooling rack.

9. 9

   Serve warm.

10. 10

    The cracklings respond especially well if the corn bread is toasted the next day.

No additional tips available.