Happy'S Hush Puppies
Golden hush puppies with a savory onion flavor, crispy exterior, and tender inside, perfect as a side or snack for seafood lovers and families alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the onions very finely and place them in a large bowl.
- Add the water ground meal to the bowl.
- Mix the onions and meal thoroughly.
- Add baking powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to the mixture.
- Gradually add water a little at a time, mixing until the batter reaches a consistency that can be formed into balls, not too dry or runny.
- Form the batter into small balls and drop them into hot boiling peanut oil (about one gallon).
- Cook until the hush puppies fall to the bottom and then float to the top, indicating they are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. If you can't find Dixie Lily water ground meal, any fine cornmeal will work, although the texture might vary slightly. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the hush puppies may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hush puppies hot, paired with a side of homemade Unbeatable Salad Dressing for a delightful contrast. They also make a perfect accompaniment to fried fish or BBQ dishes. For a fun twist, try serving them with a spicy dipping sauce or alongside Bing'S Holiday Wassail for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 minutes until heated through, which helps restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Happy'S Hush Puppies contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 966mg per serving (42% 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 make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to fry the hush puppies fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If the batter thickens, you may need to add a splash of water to get it back to the right consistency before frying.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Peanut oil is recommended for frying hush puppies due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which allows the taste of the hush puppies to shine. However, you can also use vegetable or canola oil if you prefer a different option. Just ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter.
Can I freeze leftover hush puppies?
Yes, hush puppies can be frozen. 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 2 months. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness when you're ready to enjoy them again.
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).