Buttered Hominy
A classic Southern side dish that's incredibly simple yet satisfying. Tender hominy kernels are pan-fried in butter until golden brown and slightly crisp, creating a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal. Ready in just 15 minutes!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Hominy
- b.Open the cans of hominy and pour the contents into a colander.
- c.Rinse the hominy thoroughly under cool running water to remove the starchy canning liquid.
- d.Shake the colander vigorously to remove as much water as possible, then spread the hominy on a paper towel-lined plate and pat completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture and preventing the butter from splattering.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Melt Butter and Add Hominy
- b.Place a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the butter and let it melt completely until it begins to foam and shimmer.
- d.Carefully add the dried hominy to the hot skillet, spreading it into an even layer.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Pan-Fry Until Golden
- b.Cook the hominy for 8-10 minutes, stirring only occasionally (every 2-3 minutes).
- c.Allowing the hominy to sit undisturbed in the hot pan is key to developing a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly crispy exterior.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Season and Serve
- b.Once the hominy is browned to your liking, reduce the heat to low.
- c.Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder over the hominy.
- d.Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly and cook for one final minute.
- e.Remove from the heat, transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best browning, do not overcrowd the pan. Use a large skillet to ensure the hominy fries rather than steams.
- 2Patience is key! Let the hominy sit in the pan without stirring for a few minutes at a time to develop a nice crust.
- 3For a nutty, richer flavor, allow the butter to brown slightly (beurre noisette) before adding the hominy.
- 4A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end can brighten up the flavors wonderfully.
- 5Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little butter or oil.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce along with the other seasonings.
CheesyCheesy
Turn off the heat and stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, cotija, or sharp cheddar cheese until just melted.
SmokySmoky
Add 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor. Crumbled cooked bacon is also a delicious addition.
HerbyHerby
Swap the parsley for fresh cilantro or chives for a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Fiber
Hominy is a whole-grain food that provides dietary fiber, which is essential for promoting digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Niacin (Vitamin B3)
The nixtamalization process that creates hominy makes the niacin in corn more bioavailable. Niacin is a crucial B-vitamin for converting food into energy and supporting nervous system function.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Since hominy is made from corn, it is naturally free of gluten, making it an excellent and safe carbohydrate choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Hominy is made from whole corn kernels that have been soaked in an alkaline solution in a process called nixtamalization. This process removes the tough outer hull, softens the kernel, and unlocks nutrients like niacin, making them more available for absorption.