Hush Puppy (For A Crowd)
Hush puppies are delightful, crispy cornmeal fritters that are a staple in Southern cuisine. With a rich onion flavor and a hint of sweetness, they're perfect for gatherings and pair beautifully with fried fish or barbeque. These bite-sized treats are sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add half of the eggs.
- Add half of the buttermilk.
- Add chopped onions, using half of them.
- Mix well, then add the remaining onions and buttermilk.
- Mix until combined.
- Form balls about the size of a teaspoon.
- Deep fry in oil at 350°F until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the flour and cornmeal before mixing to help aerate the ingredients. You can substitute half of the buttermilk with plain yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. Use green onions instead of regular onions for a milder flavor. If the batter is too thick, add additional buttermilk gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
Serving Suggestions
These hush puppies pair beautifully with fried fish or shrimp, making them a great side for a seafood feast. Serve them with a dipping sauce like tartar or remoulade for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider accompanying them with coleslaw or a light salad to balance the richness.
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 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain their crunchy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hush Puppy (For A Crowd) contains roughly 291 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), and protein (14% 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?
It's best to fry the hush puppies immediately after mixing the batter to maintain their texture. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them separately. Just mix in the wet ingredients when you're ready to fry for the freshest result.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Peanut oil is ideal for frying hush puppies due to its high smoke point and flavor. However, you can also use vegetable or canola oil if you prefer. Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
Can I freeze hush puppies?
Yes, hush puppies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
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).