Gather all ingredients.
Combine cornmeal, salt, and sugar in a medium bowl. Add boiling water and 1 tablespoon bacon grease; stir until bacon grease melts.
Pour bacon grease to a depth of ½-inch in a large skillet; heat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Shape cornmeal mixture into 12 flattened balls using a heaping tablespoon as a measuring guide.
Fry, turning once, in hot oil until crisp and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
