Good Hush Puppies

Prep: 40 min Cuisine: American

Crispy, golden hush puppies are a classic Southern favorite, boasting a savory cornmeal and onion flavor with a tender interior. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they suit casual gatherings and comfort food cravings alike, offering a delightful crunch and hearty taste in every bite.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. cornmeal
  • 1 c. flour
  • 1 egg
  • about 1 c. buttermilk
  • onion

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until the mixture is thick.
  2. Let the mixture rise for about 30-40 minutes.
  3. Do not stir after it has risen.
  4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into hot grease and fry until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist, try adding chopped jalapeños or shredded cheese for extra flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy hush puppies. These pair beautifully with Lou'S Oatmeal Cookies for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hush puppies fresh and hot, ideally alongside a bowl of chili or fried catfish for a classic Southern meal. They also make a great appetizer when paired with a dipping sauce like tartar or remoulade. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Charlie'S Cornbread and a fresh salad. These are perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy. Enjoy them as a quick snack or side dish!

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Good Hush Puppies contains roughly 327 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value).

327 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.8g 14% DV
Total Fat 7.7g 10% DV
Carbs 58.8g 21% DV
Fiber 0.4g 2% DV
Sugar 3.6g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 278mg 12% DV
Potassium 426.6mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 161.4mg 54% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 66mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 209.9mg 16% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. However, it's best to fry them fresh for the best texture. If you need to, you can also freeze cooked hush puppies and reheat them in the oven, but they may lose some crispiness.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Peanut oil or vegetable oil are ideal for frying hush puppies due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can impart a strong taste that may not complement the hush puppies.

Can I make hush puppies without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or use unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version. Adjust the consistency with additional buttermilk if needed to ensure the batter holds together.

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).

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