Hush Puppy Dumplings
Crispy hush puppy dumplings with a savory cornmeal and onion flavor, perfect as a snack or side dish for gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients—cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper—in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then blend with the buttermilk.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Let the batter sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- The batter should be stiff; if necessary, adjust with a little more flour or buttermilk.
- Roll the batter into small balls.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the balls in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños 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. Adjust the consistency of the batter as needed; it should be thick enough to form balls but not too dry. These hush puppy dumplings are a great side for any Southern meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious hush puppy dumplings warm, alongside fried fish, coleslaw, or a spicy dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer. They pair beautifully with a refreshing salad or can be enjoyed as a snack on their own. For a sweet finish, consider serving with a slice of Buttered Pound Cake for a delicious contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover hush puppy dumplings can be stored 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. This method helps maintain their crispy texture, unlike microwaving, which may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hush Puppy Dumplings contains roughly 449 calories, with 11g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% 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 hush puppy dumplings in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry them shortly before serving. If making ahead, fry them, then reheat as needed to retain their crispy exterior.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for frying hush puppy dumplings. These oils will withstand the high temperatures required for frying without burning, ensuring a crispy finish.
Can I bake these dumplings instead of frying?
While frying is traditional for achieving crispy hush puppy dumplings, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes. However, they may not be as crispy as their fried counterparts.
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).