BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
• Pour 2 tablespoons of the oil into a well-seasoned 9-inch cast-iron skillet (see Cook's Note) and place over medium-high heat. Pour the cornmeal into a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the cornmeal and add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil. With a fork, stir in enough of the buttermilk to make a batter that is thick but can be easily poured into the hot skillet. You may not need all 3 cups.
• Carefully pour the batter into the skillet. The oil will come up around the edges. Use the back of a spoon to smooth this over the top of the batter. Continue to heat on the stovetop for 1 minute, then transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the cornbread until browned on top, about 20 minutes. Immediately turn the cornbread out onto a cooling rack to keep the crust crisp.