President Monroe's Southern Egg Bread

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Step 2: Stir together milk and 1 cup water in a large saucepan.

Step 3: Bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Remove from heat, and gradually whisk in 2 cups cornmeal.

Step 5: Let stand until needed.

Step 6: Beat eggs in a large bowl at high speed with an electric mixer until foamy. (They beat by hand )

Step 7: Add salt, and beat 5 minutes or until mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 8: Stir together buttermilk and baking soda in a small bowl.

Step 9: Pour into egg mixture, and mix well.

Step 10: Add cornmeal mixture, and stir until smooth.

Step 11: Place lard in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet. Place skillet in oven 5 minutes.

Step 12: Pour melted lard into cornmeal mixture, and mix well.

Step 13: Stir in remaining ¼ cup cornmeal.

Step 14: Pour mixture into hot skillet.

Step 15: Bake at 400˚ for 25 to 30 minutes or until firm.

Step 16: Remove from skillet immediately, and serve hot