Real Southern Cornbread

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1. 1Step 1: Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
2. 2Step 2: Rub a tablespoon of the fat on the bottom and sides of a 10 inch cast iron skillet and place into the oven.
3. 3Step 3: Whisk together the cornmeal, salt, baking powder and baking soda.
4. 4Step 4: Add the buttermilk, remaining 1/4 cup of melted fat and egg and gently blend. Batter should be the consistency of cooked oatmeal or grits.
5. 5Step 5: Use an oven mitt to remove skillet from the oven. Pour the batter into the skillet. Return to oven and bake at 450 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.
6. 6Step 6: Remove and let rest for a few minutes, then either slice out of the skillet or using heavy oven mitts, very carefully turn out onto a plate and serve immediately.
7. 7Step 7: Cornbread is best served fresh and hot. Reserve any leftovers in the freezer to use for stuffing, or crumble into a tall glass of sweet milk or buttermilk.