Grandma’s Old Fashioned Johnny Cakes
Grandmas irresistible old fashioned Johnny cake recipe with easy ingredients like cornmeal, flour and sugar.
Cooking up nostalgia: 1920s grandma’s Johnny cake budget-friendly recipe.
While Johnny cakes are commonly associated with breakfast, it's essential to note that culinary traditions can vary widely, Johnny cakes are versatile and can be served with various meals, both sweet and savory.
Top Johnny cakes with maple syrup, honey, or fruit preserves for a sweet breakfast option or with a hearty soup or chili for a satisfying lunch.
Use them as a side dish for stews, casseroles, or barbecue dishes. Cut Johnny cakes into bite-sized pieces and serve with dips like salsa, guacamole, or hummus.
History of Johnny Cakes
Johnny cakes were a common and practical food item among pioneers, settlers, and cowboys.
These flatbreads were well-suited to the rustic and nomadic lifestyle of those living in the frontier.
The simplicity of ingredients and the ease of preparation made Johnny cakes a staple in the diets of many people in the Old West.
The basic ingredients for Old West Johnny cakes typically included cornmeal, salt, and water.
Sometimes, a bit of fat, such as bacon grease, might be added for flavor and moisture.
The mixture would be formed into a thick batter, which could be cooked directly on a hot surface, like a cast-iron skillet or a flat rock, over an open fire.
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Why were Johnny Cakes so popular in the early 1900’s?
Portability: The batter could be mixed and formed into cakes in the field, and then cooked over an open fire, making it a convenient and portable food for those on the move.
Versatility: Johnny cakes could be eaten on their own as a quick and filling meal, or they could be paired with other foods such as beans, stews, or meats.
Durability: The dense nature of Johnny cakes made them durable and well-suited for long journeys. They could withstand rough handling and were less prone to spoilage.
Economic Considerations: The economic constraints of the time often dictated the use of readily available and inexpensive ingredients, making Johnny cakes a practical choice for those living in the Old West.
The original recipe is included below
Today’s helpful housewife hint of the day.
Cornmeal Consistency is Key: To achieve the perfect texture in your Johnny cakes, pay attention to the consistency of the cornmeal batter. Aim for a smooth and pourable batter, but not overly thin.
Adjust the amount of liquid or cornmeal as needed to get the right balance. This ensures that your Johnny cakes cook evenly, achieving a golden-brown crust on the outside while maintaining a tender interior.
Experimenting with the batter consistency allows you to tailor the texture to your liking.
Grandma’s Old Fashioned Johnny Cake Recipe
Notes:
use only 2 teaspoons baking powder if the cake is a little too dense
ingredients
1/2 Cup sugar
3 Tablespoon mazola - vegetable oil
1 Cup corn meal
1 egg
1 Cup milk
1 Cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder
directions
Sift all dry ingredients together.
Next, add liquid ingredients, mix with well beaten egg.
Pour into hissing hot oiled pan.
Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.
original recipe cira 1920s
Storing Johnny cakes properly helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out. Here are some general guidelines for storing Johnny cakes:
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume Johnny cakes within a day or two, you can store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Refrigeration: If you need to store Johnny cakes for a more extended period, consider refrigerating them. Place the cakes in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in the refrigerator. This can help prolong their freshness.
Freezing: For longer-term storage, Johnny cakes can be frozen. Allow the cakes to cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped cakes in a sealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Properly frozen Johnny cakes can be stored for several weeks.
Labeling: When storing Johnny cakes in the refrigerator or freezer, label the containers or packages with the date to keep track of their freshness. This is especially helpful when you have multiple items in the freezer.
Thawing: When you're ready to use frozen Johnny cakes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven to restore their texture and warmth.
Avoid Moisture: Moisture can lead to a loss of quality in Johnny cakes. Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before storing them, and avoid storing them in a place where they might be exposed to condensation.
Johnny cakes make for a delightful addition to breakfast, pairing perfectly with classic favorites like scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.
The comforting simplicity of these cornmeal delights, complemented by the savory goodness of eggs and bacon, creates a breakfast experience that is both hearty and satisfying.
So, next time you whip up a batch of Johnny cakes, consider elevating your morning meal with this delicious and timeless combination.
Enjoy!
