Donna'S Hush Puppies(Great With Fried Catfish)
Crispy, golden hush puppies with a hint of garlic and red pepper, perfect as a side with fried catfish or other Southern favorites, offering a savory, satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients: corn meal, flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, sugar, and red pepper.
- Add the beaten egg and enough buttermilk (start with about 3/4 cup) to make a thick batter.
- Stir in finely chopped onion.
- Drop teaspoons of batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding jalapeños or chopped bell peppers to the batter. If you don't have buttermilk, a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice can be a suitable substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry the hush puppies quickly; this prevents them from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hush puppies alongside fried catfish for a classic Southern meal. They also pair beautifully with coleslaw and tartar sauce. For a fun twist, try them with a spicy dipping sauce or a creamy ranch. You could even serve them as an appetizer at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Donna'S Hush Puppies(Great With Fried Catfish) contains roughly 67 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 make hush puppies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld, but make sure to stir well before frying.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Peanut oil is an excellent choice due to its high smoke point and flavor. However, vegetable oil or canola oil can also work well for frying hush puppies.
Can I freeze hush puppies?
Yes, you can freeze hush puppies after frying. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
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).