Corn Hush Puppies
Corn hush puppies are crispy, golden-fried balls with a sweet and savory corn flavor. Perfect as a side dish for Southern meals or casual gatherings, their tender interior contrasts with a crunchy exterior, appealing to both children and adults who enjoy comforting, flavorful bites with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine 6 heaping tablespoons of plain cornmeal, 4 heaping tablespoons of self-rising flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Stir in the 16-ounce can of cream-style corn until the mixture is well blended.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove the hush puppies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or jalapeños to the batter. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder for every cup used. Ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid greasy hush puppies, and use a thermometer for accuracy. These hush puppies are a delightful addition to any Southern meal, making them perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these corn hush puppies warm, alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard for added flavor. They pair beautifully with fried fish or shrimp, making them a fantastic side for a seafood platter. For a complete meal, consider serving them with collard greens or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Hush Puppies contains roughly 883 calories, with 19g protein, 206g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned cream-style corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but you will need to blend it to achieve a creamier texture similar to cream-style corn. Simply pulse the thawed corn in a blender for a few seconds until smooth. This will give your hush puppies a fresh taste while maintaining the recipe's integrity.
What type of oil is best for frying hush puppies?
Vegetable oil or peanut oil works best for frying hush puppies due to their high smoke point and neutral flavor. Both options ensure that the hush puppies fry evenly and develop a perfect golden-brown crust without imparting any unwanted flavors.
Can I make the batter in advance?
While it's best to fry the hush puppies fresh for optimal texture, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just be sure to give it a good stir before frying, as the ingredients may settle. This can save time when you're preparing for gatherings or a busy meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).