Fried cornmeal mush
Fried cornmeal mush is a comforting, savory dish made by chilling cooked cornmeal porridge (polenta), slicing it, and pan-frying until golden and crispy. It's a classic American comfort food, particularly associated with Pennsylvania Dutch and Southern cuisine, often served as a hearty breakfast or side dish.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is primarily a source of carbohydrates from the cornmeal, with a moderate amount of fat from the frying oil. A typical serving provides a good source of energy and some iron, with a rough ballpark of 250-350 calories per serving depending on portion size and oil used.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 52 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 180 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.4 mg |
| Folate | 80 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 100 IU |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a prime example of 'waste-not' cooking, transforming leftover porridge into a new, texturally exciting meal. Nutritionally, the frying process creates a crispy exterior that contrasts with the soft interior, making it a satisfying way to enjoy whole-grain corn.
