Mississippi Hush Puppies
Crispy, golden Mississippi hush puppies feature sweet cornmeal and onions, offering a savory snack perfect for gatherings or as a delightful appetizer with a crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 2 or 3 inches of Crisco oil to 365°F in a deep fryer or deep saucepan.
- Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add buttermilk, egg, and chopped onions to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until well blended.
- Drop batter by tablespoonfuls into the heated oil.
- Fry a few at a time for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Turn as needed for even browning.
- Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced jalapeños or spices like cayenne pepper to the batter. You can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for a similar tanginess. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve a crispy texture, and avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain the temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mississippi Hush Puppies hot with a side of remoulade or tartar sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with fried catfish or as an appetizer at gatherings. For a satisfying meal, enjoy them alongside American recipes like Country Monkey Bread to add variety to your spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mississippi Hush Puppies contains roughly 209 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 682mg per serving (30% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry them fresh just before serving. If you need to prepare them in advance, consider frying and then reheating as mentioned in the storage section.
What can I use instead of Crisco oil for frying?
You can use vegetable oil or peanut oil as a substitute for Crisco oil. Both options work well for deep frying and will give you a nice crispy texture. Just ensure the oil is suitable for high-temperature frying to achieve the best results.
Can I add other ingredients to the hush puppy mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate ingredients like shredded cheese, corn kernels, or even diced bell peppers for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as too much liquid can affect the frying process.
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).