Prepare your smoker at 400 degrees.
Place the cast iron skillet inside to smoker to to heat it up.
Place the shortening in the skillet to melt.
Mix the corn meal, buttermilk and egg in a large bowl thoroughly.
Thin the mix with water if needed, typically 1 or 2 T.
Add in some of the hot, melted shortening from the skillet.
Place the skillet in the smoker.
Cook the cornbread until it starts to brown.
Remove the skillet from the smoker and top with your favorite butter to melt over the hot cornbread.
