Hush Puppies
Hush puppies are delightful, deep-fried cornmeal balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. With the savory touch of finely chopped onion and a hint of salt, these golden treats are perfect as a side dish or snack, especially paired with fried fish or barbecue.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine corn meal, flour, and baking soda in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in buttermilk and beat until the batter is smooth.
- Stir in salt and onion.
- Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of batter into a deep fryer and fry until golden brown.
- Drain on paper toweling before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped green onions to the batter. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 365°F) before frying for a crispy outer layer. Avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain the temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Hush puppies are delicious served alongside fried fish or shrimp, making them a perfect companion for a seafood boil. They also pair beautifully with Rich Beef And Gravy(Crock-Pot Recipe) for a hearty meal. Consider serving with a side of tartar sauce or remoulade for dipping to enhance the flavors.
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 for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness, or use an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hush Puppies contains roughly 305 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2433mg per serving (106% 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 bake hush puppies instead of frying them?
While traditional hush puppies are deep-fried for that crispy texture, you can bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. Just ensure you use a non-stick baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They may not be as crispy, but it's a healthier alternative.
What can I use instead of corn meal?
If you don't have corn meal, you can substitute it with finely ground polenta or masa harina. Both will give a similar texture and flavor, though the taste may vary slightly. Adjust the liquid in the recipe if needed for consistency.
How do I know when the hush puppies are done frying?
Hush puppies are typically done when they float to the surface and turn a golden brown color, which takes about 3-5 minutes in hot oil. To check for doneness, you can also insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they're ready to be drained.
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).