Mexican Hush Puppies
Mexican hush puppies are crispy, cheesy bites with a spicy kick from jalapenos and onions, perfect as a snack or side dish for gatherings and casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Ensure your oil is hot enough for frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color. Serve with a side of salsa for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican Hush Puppies are excellent as a standalone snack or appetizer. They pair beautifully with 8 Layer Mexican Dip or a tangy avocado salsa. Consider serving them alongside grilled meats or as part of a taco night spread. They also make a fun addition to a South Of The Border Easy Tex Mex Patio Party Spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hush puppies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Hush Puppies contains roughly 517 calories, with 10g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1365mg per serving (59% 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 these hush puppies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry them fresh just before serving. If you have leftover cooked hush puppies, follow storage tips for optimal freshness.
What type of oil is best for frying?
For frying hush puppies, use oils with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve a crispy exterior without burning. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can affect the flavor.
Can I make these hush puppies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the cornmeal you use is also certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of these flavorful Mexican Hush Puppies.
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).